The Environment Ministry’s textile recycling guidelines are expected to be issued and formally implemented in the first half of next year. The guidelines are mainly aimed at the chain brand clothing industry and retail industry.
The guidelines come as fast fashion continues to cause increased environmental strain, with large volumes of clothing being discarded every year. According to Environment Ministry data, only 82,000 metric tons of textiles were recycled nationwide last year. Approximately 43,000 metric tons of those were repurposed as second-hand clothing or exported, while the rest remained unrecycled, and treated as general waste.
Li I-hua (李宜樺) of the Environment Ministry’s Resource Circulation Administration said on Tuesday that the guidelines will encourage businesses to prioritize the use of single materials, integrate recycled materials, and offer post-sale maintenance, as well as sharing and rental services. Additionally, they hope to see businesses establish collection points in their stores and provide incentives to motivate consumers to recycle clothing.
Li says that once the Environment Ministry presents the guideline draft, interested businesses will voluntarily sign agreements. He pointed out that discussions with businesses have been smooth, as the guidelines are not mandatory, and some businesses have already taken steps to establish collection points in their stores.