A new white paper calls for variable EPR fees in UK fashion.
- QSA Partners, with support from key industry bodies, has developed this proposal.
- The aim is to hold producers accountable for the environmental impact of their products.
- Experts argue this could promote recycling and reduce production’s harmful effects.
- There is a push for legislation to drive this initiative forward.
A new industry-backed white paper has been introduced, advocating for the implementation of variable Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees within the fashion sector in the UK. The proposal has been developed by QSA Partners with backing from prominent organisations including the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT), the British Fashion Council, and the British Retail Consortium, among numerous fashion brands.
The proposed system emphasises that manufacturers should bear the cost related to the end-of-life processing of their goods. This approach seeks to alleviate the burden currently placed on communities and the environment. By implementing variable EPR fees, the industry aims to enhance recycling rates, promote the reuse of materials, and mitigate the deleterious environmental impacts associated with garment production.
Adam Mansell, the CEO at UKFT, highlighted that an EPR fee mechanism based on eco modulation could provide an equitable platform by incentivising those who engage in sustainable practices while holding accountable those who neglect environmental responsibilities. He stressed the necessity for legislative measures to propel advancements in this area.
Additionally, Katharine Beacham, head of sustainability in clothing and home at Marks & Spencer, expressed that a robust EPR programme must promote responsible business operations, foster circular design principles, and contribute to the development of the UK’s recycling infrastructure to achieve meaningful and lasting environmental changes.
Tim Clark, technical director of John Smedley, noted the significance of the EPR Sandbox project, which has enabled the creation of a fair process for EPR across different segments within the textile industry. He emphasised the need for greater awareness of the EPR process to help shape the future handling of product end-of-life procedures.
This industry-driven initiative underlines the critical need for sustainable practices in fashion through legislative support for variable EPR fees.
