Briefing

EU exports of used textiles in Europe’s circular economy

Briefing Published 27 Feb 2023 Last modified 26 Apr 2023

16 min read

Photo: © Lars Mortensen (modified)

Textiles are on average the fourth-highest source of pressure on the environment and climate change from a European consumption perspective, as shown in previous EEA briefings. Europe faces major challenges managing used textiles, including textiles waste. As reuse and recycling capacities in Europe are limited, a large share of used textiles collected in the EU is traded and exported to Africa and Asia, and their fate is highly uncertain. The common public perception of used clothing donations as generous gifts to people in need does not fully match reality.

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Disclaimer

The country assessments are the sole responsibility of the EEA member and cooperating countries supported by the EEA through guidance, translation and editing.

For references, please go to https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/eu-exports-of-used-textiles/eu-exports-of-used-textiles or scan the QR code.

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