France is advocating for a European Union ban on the export of used clothes, as disclosed by the Environment Ministry to Reuters on Thursday. This move comes as governments seek new solutions to address the escalating issue of textile waste.
According to United Nations trade data, the EU exported 1.4 million metric tons of used textiles in 2022, a figure more than double that of 2000. These clothes often contribute to pollution in African countries, where items unsuitable for resale end up in landfills, as highlighted by the EU.
In total, Europe generates 5.2 million tons of clothing and footwear waste annually, according to the European Commission. France, along with Sweden and Denmark, is supporting the proposed ban, aiming to initiate discussions during an Environment Council meeting in Brussels scheduled for March 25. The ministry attributes the throwaway culture surrounding clothing to “fast-fashion” retailers, who profit from excessive consumption.
France’s environment ministry emphasized the need to halt Africa’s role as a dumping ground for fast-fashion products, stating, “Africa must no longer be the dustbin of fast-fashion.” The ministry underscored the importance of waste reduction and effective waste management strategies.
