One part of ESPR did not wait for product-specific rules. Since 19 July 2026, large companies may no longer destroy unsold clothing, clothing accessories and footwear in the EU. They must also publish how many unsold consumer products they discard each year. Here is what changed and who it affects.
What changed on 19 July 2026
ESPR contains two rules on unsold consumer products:
- A destruction ban. Unsold apparel, clothing accessories and footwear may not be destroyed. Destruction includes shredding, burning and sending to landfill.
- A disclosure duty. Companies must publish, every year, the number and weight of unsold consumer products they discarded, the reasons, and how the products were handled, for example reuse, remanufacturing, recycling or destruction.
Who it applies to
Both rules apply to large enterprises since 19 July 2026. Medium-sized enterprises follow from 19 July 2030. Micro and small enterprises are exempt, although the Commission can extend the rules later. The Commission also sets out exceptions, for example for products that are unsafe, counterfeit or damaged beyond repair.
Why it matters for smaller brands too
If you are a small fashion brand, the ban does not apply to you directly. But your retailers and larger partners now have to account for every unsold item they discard. Expect more questions about returns, repair, resale and recycling options, and about what your products are made of.
Textiles are also the first consumer product group in the ESPR working plan. The information your partners ask for now, such as material composition, origin and end-of-life options, is largely what a textile passport is expected to hold.
What you can do
Make the information easy to pass on. A product passport gives every item one place for its materials, care, repair and recycling information, behind a QR code that stays the same when details change. Our guides on which products need a passport and preparing product information are a good place to start.