The industry warning comes as comprehensive EPR requirements for textiles manufacturers have come into effect in the EU, which now mandate that textile producers collect detailed material composition data and pay modulated fees based on recyclability performance.
Ecoveritas, a Manchester-based data analysis and environmental compliance firm which has worked with major UK retailers, has indicated that similar UK regulations are "very likely" following the strengthened EPR framework introduced for packaging and other materials in 2025.
The firm, which has already worked with top UK brands including Harrods and New Look, has told the fashion industry that greater regulations are inevitable, and could have a major impact on costs and ultimately consumer prices.
James Walkerdine, Managing Director of Ecoveritas, said: "Europe generates 12 million tonnes of textile waste every year, which is equivalent to up to 70 pairs of jeans for every person living there.
“Of that amount, 70% ends up in landfill or incinerated. The EU’s new rules are designed to make producers financially responsible for this waste, and it is very likely that the UK will follow suit.”
“With the impact of fast fashion at the forefront of consumers’ minds, many will welcome a move to make the textiles industry more conscious about sustainability, but businesses must be prepared for the cost.”
The textile sector accounts for approximately 10% of global CO₂ emissions, exceeding the combined emissions of international aviation and maritime shipping, according to Ecoveritas analysis. European clothing consumption has risen by around 40% over the past two decades, while average garment lifespan has contracted dramatically, with items now worn only 7 to 10 times before disposal.
Under the EU's EPR framework, manufacturers must now ensure separate collection of all textile waste, with member states required to fully implement EPR systems by 2028. France has already deployed a complete EPR scheme for textiles, establishing operational precedent for the model.
The compliance burden is substantial. Companies failing to submit accurate material data face potential excess payments running into millions of pounds, alongside financial penalties for regulatory non-compliance.
James Walkerdine added: "Simply put, brands that design products with recyclability in mind will pay lower fees.
“But for all manufacturers, understanding the regulations is critical. Since the introduction of EPR for the UK manufacturing industry, many businesses are facing a huge cost burden and fines because they are failing to get compliance right.”
The UK's EPR framework for packaging became fully operational in 2025.
While government confirmation remains pending, Ecoveritas identifies clear indicators that the UK will align with EU textile EPR policy direction.
James Walkerdine explained: "The UK tends to watch the EU for regulations that work. There is a clear desire to act on fast fashion, so we can expect to see similar measures introduced here soon.
“There is a clear opportunity here for British fashion companies to get ahead of legislation now, by collecting the right data and understanding the materials they use.
"The brands that prepare now won't just avoid cost shocks, they'll be positioned to lead the transition toward a circular textile economy.”
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