EU Implements Landmark Legislation to Reduce Food and Textile Waste

On September 9, 2023, the European Parliament approved a significant legislative measure aimed at reducing food and textile waste across the European Union. This directive establishes legally binding targets for food waste reduction, mandating a 30% decrease in waste generated by households, retailers, and restaurants by 2030, and a 10% reduction in waste from food processing and manufacturing. The targets are based on average waste levels recorded between 2021 and 2023, addressing the staggering 60 million tons of food wasted annually in the EU, which translates to approximately 132 kilograms per person.

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In conjunction with food waste measures, the directive introduces Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes for textiles. Under these schemes, textile producers, including those operating online, will be required to cover the costs associated with the collection, sorting, and recycling of their products. This regulation targets the fast fashion industry, which generates 12.6 million tons of textile waste each year, with only 1% currently being recycled. The EPR will apply to a wide range of textile products, including clothing, footwear, and household textiles, with member states given 30 months to implement these requirements.

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The new legislation aims to mitigate the environmental impact of food and textile waste, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Food waste alone accounts for about 16% of total emissions from the EU food system. By reducing waste, the EU seeks to conserve vital resources such as land, water, and energy, while also addressing the economic losses associated with wasted food, estimated at €132 billion annually.

DW NewsMethane mitigation and the WFD: Slashing emissions begins with food waste preventionEuropean Parliament confirmation of food waste targets an ‘important milestone’Canadian AffairsEuropean Parliament gives green light to new measures to prevent food wasteEU finalises long-awaited food waste targets and EPR scheme for textilesThe EU sets mandatory targets against food waste and fast fashion for the first time in a landmark new law.

Despite the positive reception from some environmental groups, the legislation has faced criticism. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) expressed concern over the lack of specific targets for the agricultural sector, where substantial food waste occurs before reaching consumers. Additionally, the hospitality sector has opposed the binding targets, advocating instead for public awareness campaigns to address food waste at the household level, where over 50% of waste is generated.

Methane mitigation and the WFD: Slashing emissions begins with food waste prevention

David Gudgeon, head of external affairs at Reconomy Connect, remarked on the importance of the binding targets, stating, “Meeting these ambitious targets will be demanding, but they signal a decisive shift away from a throwaway culture.” Meanwhile, Marine Thizon from the hospitality sector emphasized the need for consumer education, noting, “The key is raising awareness — especially among consumers.”

European Parliament gives green light to new measures to prevent food waste

Following the directive's approval, member states will have 20 months to transpose the legislation into national law. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on the commitment of individual countries to enforce the targets and implement the EPR schemes. As the EU moves towards a more sustainable consumption model, the success of this directive could serve as a benchmark for other regions grappling with similar waste issues.

The EU sets mandatory targets against food waste and fast fashion for the first time in a landmark new law.