At the Textiles Recycling Expo 2025, held in Brussels, momentum was palpable as industry leaders gathered to address the systemic challenges and opportunities in textile circularity. A standout moment from the event was the panel titled “What’s Needed to Boost Textile Recycling Rates,” featuring key voices from across the sector.
Louisa Hoyes, Segment Director for Textiles at TOMRA Recycling, joined an esteemed lineup including Ana Rodes (Recover), Patricia Moñino Amorós (Accelerating Circularity), Mohamed Bouraoui Kechiche (Decathlon), and Maria Åkerfeldt (H&M) to dive into the pressing issues and real-world pathways to improve textile recycling performance across the globe.
Key Takeaways from the Panel:
- Systemic Collaboration Over First Movers
Hoyes emphasized that textile recycling is not a chicken-and-egg scenario. “It’s not about one company going it alone,” she said. Instead, she called for synchronized action across the value chain — from collectors, sorters, and recyclers to brands and technology providers. A united approach is essential to build a circular ecosystem that functions at scale. - From Pilots to Commercial Impact
The panel agreed that while innovation is abundant, most remain stuck at pilot or lab scale. Scaling these solutions will depend heavily on robust policy frameworks. “The technology exists,” Hoyes noted, “but what’s needed now is clear, supportive legislation to de-risk investment and facilitate commercial growth.” - Policy as a Catalyst
Speakers stressed the importance of legislative backing — including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), harmonized waste classification standards, and financial incentives — to create the structural backbone for recycling growth across EU markets and beyond.
A Shared Commitment to Change
Hoyes expressed optimism about the road ahead, underscoring the energy in the room:
“There’s a lot of work ahead, but seeing so many passionate, committed people in one place — all aligned on the need for change — was incredibly energizing. Proud to be part of it.”
The session was a reflection of the wider message at this year’s Expo: scaling circularity demands shared responsibility, real investment, and enabling policy environments. As industry conversations shift from intent to implementation, cross-sector partnerships will be the driving force behind a truly circular textile economy.
