The EU’s push for longer-lasting, more circular clothing could put jobs and livelihoods at risk across global supply chains – sharpening discussions on what role extended producer responsibility schemes could play
In our latest Ecotextile Talks podcast textile compliance expert and director of The Knowledge Nexus, Niall Maplesden says the EU’s push for more durable, repairable and recyclable clothing through ESPR regulation could reduce order volumes for factories and put workers in lower tiers of global supply chains at risk.
Speaking to host Philip Berman, Niall, who has 30 years’ experience in the textile sector, says brands are likely to pivot if demand for new clothing falls, protecting their own revenues while leaving factories with less work.
He claims that even a 10 – 20% reduction in orders could have significant consequences, particularly for satellite factories involved in cutting, pressing and packing garments.
Niall, whose concerns were outlined in an earlier Ecotextile News article, says the impact would be felt most sharply in countries including China, Vietnam, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Bangladesh, which relies heavily on textiles for exports, could be particularly vulnerable, he tells listeners.
He says that ultimately a just transition should protect both workers’ incomes and their “self-respect”, while allowing consumers to buy better-quality products.
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