From Loom to Loop: The Netherlands' New EPR Scheme for Textiles is in Place

The Netherlands has recently made a significant stride in environmental sustainability by implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for textiles. As the second European country to do so, after France, it's paving the way in response to the EU Green Deal's requirements and matches the European Commission’s proposed EPR schemes for textiles for all EU Member Countries. Let's delve into the details of the initiative.

The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has enacted far-reaching EPR in the textile industry. Effective July 1, 2023, these new regulations necessitate that manufacturers take on the duty of recycling and repurposing textiles.  

Specific targets were set for waste management: by 2025, 50% of all products released on the Dutch market must be recycled or reused, and this percentage must increase to 75% by 2030. While producers are required to register with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management within six weeks starting from July 2023, it's important to note that full responsibility for waste management of textile products starts from 2025. This gives companies a transition period of 18 months to adjust their operations and align with the new regulations.

WHO DOES EPR APPLY TO?

The EPR for Textiles Decree applies to all producers and importers who professionally release consumer clothing, work and corporate wear, bed, table, and household linen in the Dutch market, including textiles with recycled content. The regulation applies regardless of whether the products are offered to a company or directly to consumers.

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION?

Under this scheme, producers bear individual responsibility but have the option to meet their obligations collectively.

Established in 2022, Stichting UPV Textiel is an organization that textile producers can join. It aims to manage notification and reporting obligations for participating producers while supervising the collective organization of the collection, preparation for reuse, and recycling of textile waste.

Between May and July 1, 2023, Dutch textile companies could have registered with Stichting UPV Textiel. While direct registration is limited to Dutch companies, foreign businesses or online stores can designate an authorized representative. If necessary, Stichting UPV Textiel can serve as an authorized representative for foreign companies in the Netherlands. More information of registering process can be found here 👉🏽 Stichting UPV FAQ.

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REPORTING

The registration process involves submitting an estimated volume declaration of the textiles put on the Dutch market in 2023. This is a first statement that is only required for the notification of the collective.  

From 2024, companies must declare the amount of textiles that they have put on the market in 2023. Based on this, they will pay a provisional fee in 2024.  ‍

COSTS

In 2023, there will be no cost associated with registering for Stichting UPV Textiel. However, starting from 2024, companies must pay a fee of 0.03 € per piece of textile to comply with EPR regulations. This fee is expected to increase to 0.06 € per piece in the following year.

SIGNAGE

As of today's date, there is no signage legally required.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOUR BRAND?‍

Our team of compliance experts at Trimco Group, supported by the supply chain transparency platform ProductDNA®, can assist you in ensuring that the proper documentation is in place for your brand. Contact us to discover the best solution for you.

The Netherlands is advancing its textile waste management by making manufacturers responsible for recycling and repurposing. This initiative, aimed at boosting the recycle/reuse rate in the Dutch market, marks a promising stride towards sustainability, despite the complicated journey ahead.

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Sources:

Decree on rules extended producer responsibility for textile products | Decree | Government.nl

Rules for reusing and recycling textiles | Circular economy | Government.nl

Stichting UPV Textiel – Uitgebreide Producenten Verantwoordelijkheid (UPV) Textiel

Infographic: extended producer responsibility for textiles | Publication | Government.nl