Textiles and the environment – The role of digital technologies in Europe’s circular economy

EU initiatives on textiles — such as the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) — build on evidence and analysis previously provided by the European Environment Agency (EEA). To keep supporting the shaping and roll-out of these policies, this report updates key datasets and insights, including the latest developments in European textile production, consumption patterns, trade flows, exports of used textiles, and related environmental impact estimates. The report maps current and emerging digital solutions and examines how they could transform the design, production, and servicing of clothing and other textile products. It also looks at how these tools might change interactions between brands, retailers, and consumers, help cut product returns, enable product tracking throughout their lifecycle, and support circular business models.