Starting today large companies in the European Union may no longer destroy unsold clothing and shoes.
A new EU regulation takes effect today and requires companies to resell or donate goods instead. Exceptions apply to dangerous, damaged or soiled items and to donations that are not accepted.
The German Retail Association sees benefits for consumers through more discounted goods offered via outlets or second-hand channels. Chief executive Stefan Genth warned of extra costs for storage, sorting and remarketing.
The German Fashion Association supports the rule. Chief executive Thomas Lange stressed that clothing is a valuable product. Environmental groups including Greenpeace and the WWF called for stricter controls to prevent circumvention.
According to the European Commission four to nine percent of unsold textiles in Europe are destroyed each year, causing about 5.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.