Mediterranean ObserverThe European Union has taken a significant step towards sustainability with a provisional agreement between the Council and the European Parliament to reduce food waste and introduce new rules on textile waste management.
The agreement sets the first-ever EU-level targets for food waste reduction by 2030, including a 10% reduction in processing and manufacturing and a 30% per capita reduction in retail, restaurants, food services, and households. It also encourages the donation of unsold but safe food to further minimize waste.
On textile waste, the new rules establish extended producer responsibility, requiring fashion brands to contribute to waste management based on the sustainability and durability of their products. The measures aim to address overproduction and discourage the premature disposal of textile products, particularly in the fast fashion sector.
The agreement must now be formally approved by both institutions. Once adopted, EU member states will have up to 20 months to incorporate the new rules into national legislation. These measures mark a crucial step toward a more circular economy, reinforcing the polluter pays principle and promoting sustainable production and consumption across the EU.
More information can be accessed here.
