Fashion Industry Coalition Urges EPA to Address Textile Waste Crisis and Foster Circular Fashion Policies

In a strongly worded letter submitted on July 31, 2023, the American Circular Textiles Group (ACT) has called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to curb the escalating textile waste predicament plaguing the US fashion industry.

Comprising prominent entities including The RealReal, H&M, and Rent The Runway, ACT emphasizes the need for comprehensive circularity strategies to counter the rapidly growing waste stream generated by plastic-based textiles. The letter highlights the dire consequences of textile waste, including its detrimental impact on the environment, public health, and climate change. Citing alarming statistics, ACT points out that a staggering 60% of clothing materials consist of plastic, with textile waste experiencing an 80% domestic growth since 2000.

The coalition proposes amendments to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws to include textiles, and suggests harmonizing state laws with clear collection targets. With the first US Textile EPR bill already introduced in California, and similar initiatives underway in other states, ACT seeks EPA's endorsement and support in driving these crucial changes. The fashion industry coalition's fervent plea underscores the urgency of a united effort to instate sustainable practices and transform the trajectory of the fashion sector.