Sweden eases clothing recycling due to overload in treatment centres

Stockholm – From October_ Sweden will no longer be obligated to recycle clothes_ despite European legislation_ as textile waste treatment centres are overflowing_ the government announced on Thursday_ May 8_ 2024.

This decision_ effective from October first_ comes after the European Union imposed on member countries the requirement to have a separate textile recycling system_ alongside existing processes for glass_ paper and organic waste.

The aim is to promote circular waste management_ where textiles are sorted and reused_ or recycled as padding_ insulation or composite materials. However_ recycling centres in Sweden and other countries are struggling to cope with the resulting increase.

“Since the beginning of the year_ the quantity of textile waste collected has increased considerably_ and with it the costs of sorting_” the Swedish government indicated in a statement.

New regulations will define which textiles must be sorted and which can be thrown directly in the bin_ such as torn socks_ stained fabrics and excessively worn garments_ Environment Minister Romina Purmokhtari explained to journalists.

Humana Sverige_ an organisation that collects and sells used clothing_ told AFP on Thursday that “the amount of textiles we receive has increased dramatically.” The organisation reported that it will close 600 of its 1_300 collection points to limit the flow. “It is impossible for us to handle everything_” it explained.

The problem is not limited to Sweden. “Damaged clothing is sent to sorting centres in Europe_ but the entire sector is overwhelmed due to this legislation_” Humana Sverige added.