A comprehensive white paper recommends variable EPR fees to enhance sustainability in UK fashion.
- The proposal involves key industry entities like QSA Partners and the UKFT.
- Producers would bear the cost of end-of-life product treatment under this plan.
- A framework aims to boost recycling, reuse, and reduce environmental harm.
- Industry leaders call for legislation to support these sustainable practices.
In a move to bolster sustainability, a white paper developed by circular business consultancy firm QSA Partners has been put forth, urging the UK government to introduce variable Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees. This initiative has garnered support from prominent organisations including the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT), the British Fashion Council, and the British Retail Consortium, alongside various fashion brands. The core idea is that producers should financially account for their products’ end-of-life treatment, thus alleviating the burden on communities and the environment.
An EPR framework is seen as essential for increasing recycling efforts, promoting the reuse of products and materials, and significantly mitigating the environmental impact of fashion production. This perspective is strongly advocated by Adam Mansell, Chief Executive of UKFT, who emphasises that an EPR fee scheme based on eco modulation would create a more even playing field. Such a scheme would reward those who design their products with end-of-life considerations and penalise those who do not take environmental responsibility seriously. He asserts that legislative action is imperative to drive this progress.
Katharine Beacham, Head of Sustainability for clothing and home at Marks & Spencer, underscores the importance of incentivising responsible business practices. She believes that a robust EPR scheme must encourage circular design and invest in improving the UK’s recycling infrastructure to ensure meaningful change.
Adding to the discourse, Tim Clark, Technical Director at John Smedley, highlights the achievements of the EPR Sandbox project, which has successfully brought together a steering committee from various sectors of the textile industry. This collaborative effort has created a fair process for EPR that benefits all stakeholders involved. Clark calls for increased awareness and participation from everyone in shaping the sustainable future of product end-of-life management.
The call for variable EPR fees marks a pivotal step towards a more sustainable and responsible UK fashion industry.
