UK Clothing Industry Warned of Higher Costs as Government Targets Fast Fashion

Problems caused by ‘fast fashion’ could mean British brands are forced to pay higher costs to dispose of their waste, according to environmental policy experts Ecoveritas.

The industry warning comes as tough new rules for textiles manufacturers have come into effect in Europe, compelling producers to collect complex data and pay fees based on the recyclability of their materials.

Ecoveritas, a data analysis and environmental compliance firm based in Manchester, has said the government is “very likely” to introduce similar measures here, after strengthened rules were introduced last year for British producers of plastic, paper and other materials.

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.”

Industry analysis from Ecoveritas suggests that textile sector is responsible for around 10% of global CO₂ emissions, more than international flights and maritime shipping combined. Clothing consumption in Europe has increased by around 40% over the last two decades, while a garment is now estimated to be worn only 7 to 10 times on average before being discarded.

Under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, the EU now demands that manufacturers separate all textile waste for collection, with member states obliged to implement the EPR rules by 2028. France was the first to implement the rules in full.

But the regulations come with a high cost. Businesses who fail to provide the correct data are liable for excess payments in the millions of pounds, as well as penalties for 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 fully introduced EPR for packaging in 2025.

While no confirmation has been given, Ecoveritas said there are clear signals it will follow the EU by introducing EPR for textiles.

“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,” Mr Walkerdine continued.

“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.”