In a recent study, Bulgaria has been confronted with an alarming environmental crisis as over 100,000 tonnes of textiles are discarded annually, surpassing the weight of Sofia’s renowned National Palace of Culture by five times. The gravity of the situation is heightened by the revelation that only 2% of this substantial textile waste is currently being recycled, sparking concerns about the severe environmental repercussions and the pressing need for immediate action.
The Association for Textile Recycling has disclosed that between 50% and 70% of clothing and textiles collected in Europe are still in usable condition, underscoring the potential for improved waste management practices. Presently, Bulgaria’s textile collection system operates on a voluntary basis, with various associations collaborating with municipalities for separate collection and recovery of textile waste. Some companies go the extra mile by offering home pickups to simplify the process for citizens.
However, a seismic shift is on the horizon as Bulgaria gears up to mandate textile waste management for all citizens. This move aligns with the extended producer responsibility, a mandatory requirement for textiles and footwear in the revision of the Waste Framework Directive for EU member states. Despite the impending necessity, Bulgaria currently lacks a recovery organization, a crucial element in fostering a competitive European recycling industry and supporting the circular economy.
Countries like France, the Netherlands, and Hungary have already implemented mandatory collective textile collection systems as part of their extended producer responsibility, while Belgium has voluntary recovery organizations. Bulgaria’s adoption of a mandatory system aims to heighten environmental awareness and diminish the considerable environmental impact caused by textile waste.
The study also underscores the environmental benefits of second-hand clothing, revealing that one kilogram of second-hand clothes can save 5.9 kilograms of carbon dioxide and 5,448 liters of water. The textile industry’s substantial water consumption is highlighted, releasing more wastewater from production than humanity’s domestic needs. Moreover, the industry significantly contributes to global water pollution, utilizing 45 million tonnes of oil and occupying arable land equivalent to feeding 80 million people.
In the European Union alone, 5 million tonnes of textiles are discarded annually, with individuals purchasing nearly 15 kilograms of textiles per year and discarding 11 kilograms. The textile industry’s greenhouse gas emissions rival those of aviation, rail, and shipping combined, accentuating the urgent need for sustainable practices in the fashion and textile sectors.
