July 5, 2025 –
Landmark Study Reveals Massive Environmental Gains From Textile Recycling in EU
A groundbreaking analysis by the Swedish Environmental Research Institute has quantified the transformative potential of textile circularity in Europe. The comprehensive study demonstrates that achieving just 10% textile-to-textile recycling by 2035 would yield environmental benefits equivalent to:
• Removing 200,000 gasoline-powered cars from roads annually
• Preserving enough water to fill 35,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools
• Saving energy comparable to powering 500,000 households for a year
The research, commissioned by the European Commission, employed advanced lifecycle assessment methodologies to evaluate five critical intervention strategies. Findings reveal textile recycling could substantially alleviate Europe’s water stress while delivering measurable climate benefits.
“The textile industry currently operates as one of the most resource-intensive sectors globally,” noted the lead researcher. “Our data proves that even modest recycling targets can dramatically alter this trajectory.” The study highlights the urgent need for infrastructure development, as less than 1% of discarded textiles currently re-enter production cycles at equivalent value.
Key policy recommendations include:
- Implementation of virgin fiber taxation
- Standardized collection and sorting protocols across member states
- Strategic investments in mechanical and chemical recycling technologies
Industry experts suggest these measures could help bridge the price competitiveness gap between recycled and virgin materials. The report comes as the EU prepares to finalize its Sustainable Textiles Strategy, with binding recycling targets expected to be announced by Q1 2026.
“This research provides the economic and environmental justification for accelerated policy action,” commented a Brussels-based circular economy specialist. “The potential triple win for climate, resources, and industry competitiveness makes textile recycling one of Europe’s most promising sustainability frontiers.”
The study’s release coincides with growing momentum for extended producer responsibility schemes in the textile sector, with several EU nations already implementing pilot programs for post-consumer textile collection. Market analysts predict the findings will significantly influence upcoming revisions to the EU Textile Product Environmental Footprint guidelines.