EU Textile Recycling push could save 440,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, study finds
A new study commissioned by the European Commission and conducted by the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute reveals that even a modest increase in textile-to-textile recycling across the European Union could unlock significant environmental benefits. The researchers found that raising recycling rates to just 10% by 2035 could reduce annual carbon emissions by 440,000 tonnes and save 8.8 billion cubic metres of water.
Currently, only around 1% of textiles are recycled back into new textiles globally, with most discarded garments ending up in landfills, incinerators, or being “down-cycled” into lower-grade products like insulation or rags. This new investigation addresses a critical research gap: the environmental impact of implementing textile-to-textile recycling at a meaningful scale.
A Modest Yet Ambitious Goal
While 10% might seem conservative, the IVL researchers argue that this target is ambitious given the current state of recycling infrastructure in Europe. “We wanted to present a scenario that is both realistic and achievable in the near term,” said one of the lead authors of the study. “Even this level of progress would offer clear, measurable benefits for climate and water resources.”
Using detailed life cycle assessments, the study evaluated the environmental impact of five major recycling interventions: enhanced collection and sorting, increased fibre-to-fibre recycling, reduced incineration and landfilling, decreased production of virgin fibres, and energy trade-offs related to less incineration. The results were conclusive: reaching the 10% recycling milestone would bring a 92% probability of reduced climate impacts and nearly a 100% probability of easing water scarcity pressure.
Quantifying the Gains
The projected savings 440,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually represent roughly 0.5% less climate impact compared to the current trajectory. The water conservation potential, estimated at over 8.8 billion cubic metres, marks a 3% improvement and underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices in an industry known for its heavy water footprint.
Scaling for 2030 and Beyond
This study aligns with the European Union’s broader strategy for sustainable textiles, which aims for all textile products on the EU market to be durable, repairable, and recyclable by 2030. It also echoes findings from a 2022 McKinsey report suggesting that textile-to-textile recycling could scale to 26% by the end of the decade, provided technological and regulatory pathways are adequately supported.
The researchers caution that current recycling technologies must become significantly more energy-efficient, and recycled fibres must reach quality levels high enough to replace virgin materials. “We need strong policy levers,” the report states, “including potential taxation on virgin fibre use, to drive demand for recycled alternatives.”
Policy, Infrastructure, and the Road Ahead
The authors also highlighted key systemic barriers, particularly in the patchwork of textile collection and sorting systems that differ from country to country. Without standardised and efficient collection methods, much of the recyclable material remains inaccessible or unusable.
To overcome these hurdles, the researchers advocate for coordinated policy support at the EU level. This includes investment in advanced recycling technologies, harmonised collection infrastructure, and incentives to encourage the production and purchase of garments made from recycled textiles.
This study may prove to be a tipping point in the EU’s efforts to transition from a linear to a circular textile economy. As the fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, evidence-based research like this provides a compelling case for immediate action.
Download Our Free Magazine
Get Industry Insights, Trends & Latest Innovations in the Textile & Apparel Industry
