A year ago, the European Commission presented the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, a roadmap setting the rules to gradually move the sector towards a greener economy. The European textile industry is now issuing a warning to European politicians. Remaining “cautiously enthusiastic” about the implementation of the process, the sector’s representatives have identified four problematic points in relation to what has been happening on the Old Continent over the past year.
Faced with the EU’s initiative (available to read here), the Euratex confederation lists four pitfalls to be avoided along the way. Starting with the consistency of the sixteen that are currently on the table. The industry is calling for these rules to be technically applicable at a minimum cost for SMEs, for whom the future rules will represent new expenses and additional work.
The sector also points out that, in view of the many changes announced, information and support for businesses will be essential. And it is calling for specific support for the sector from the European Union, including a renewed demand for affordable energy: Euratex calls on the EU to translate its “good intentions” into action.
To stimulate and protect the local sector, sustainable and quality textiles and clothing must also benefit from competitive advantages, according to Euratex, which proposes, for example, a different VAT rate, strict rules for public procurement, and closer cooperation between manufacturers, brands and consumers.
