EU-wide end-of-waste criteria for preparing for re-use and remanufacturing of textile, textile-related and footwear waste

Zahara Perez Arribas, Lukas Egle (), Hans Saveyn () and Erika Pierri ()
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Lukas Egle: European Commission - JRC, https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/index_en
Hans Saveyn: European Commission - JRC, https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/index_en
Erika Pierri: European Commission - JRC, https://joint-research-centre.ec.europa.eu/index_en

No JRC147948, JRC Research Reports from Joint Research Centre

Abstract: Textile waste was selected as a priority stream for EU-wide EoW criteria development following an earlier scoping study by the Joint Research Centre (JRC). The absence of an EU‑wide harmonised legal framework for granting end‑of‑waste (EoW) status to textile, textile‑related and footwear waste that is destined for preparing for re‑use or remanufacturing creates considerable regulatory uncertainty for waste‑management operators, re‑use platforms, remanufacturers and downstream users of recovered products. Introducing EU‑wide EoW criteria for these streams would eliminate the current fragmentation among Member States and across the value chain, thereby unlocking market potential for high‑quality second-hand or remanufactured goods. The objective of this study was to develop a set of technical proposals for EU‑wide EoW criteria for textile, textile-related and footwear waste, in accordance with Article 6 of Directive 2008/98/EC. This report focuses on the sorting, preparing for re-use and remanufacturing phases, while a separate report addresses recycling operations. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the textile sector, its waste generation patterns, and the existing re‑use and remanufacturing pathways. It examines market‑relevant aspects such as demand for second-hand textiles, trade flows, technical requirements and applicable standards. The study also reviews relevant EU and national legislation and assesses environmental and human‑health impacts, including the presence of chemicals of concern throughout the value chain. A comparative review of national EoW provisions for textile re-use and remanufacturing across Member States is also presented. Drawing on inputs from a broad spectrum of stakeholders and on‑site visits, the JRC has drafted technical proposals for EU‑wide EoW criteria for preparing for re-use and remanufacturing of textile, textile-related and footwear waste. The proposed criteria address requirements for input materials, handling and treatment processes, product‑quality specifications, quality‑assurance procedures and obligations for transparent information provision. The possible adoption of these EU‑wide EoW criteria is expected to remove legal barriers, boost market confidence and stimulate the circular use of textile, textile-related and footwear products. Consequently, the measures will support the EU Green Deal objectives and contribute to the transition towards a sustainable textile economy.

Date: 2026-10
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