The German textile and fashion industry is urging the federal government to foster collaboration with domestic manufacturers as policymakers develop a new textiles law, particularly concerning proposed measures to address the environmental impact of fast fashion. Uwe Mazura, Managing Director of the Gesamtverband der Textil- und Modeindustrie (German Textile and Fashion Industry Association), voiced concerns in an interview with the “Rheinische Post”, directly responding to plans unveiled by Environment Minister Carsten Schneider (SPD).
Schneider’s initiative aims to hold producers of fast-fashion garments accountable for the costs associated with their disposal, a move designed to incentivize more sustainable production practices. However, Mazura strongly criticized the potential for blanket liability to be imposed on German quality manufacturers and fashion brands, characterizing such a provision as “absurd.
The industry representative insisted that if manufacturers are to bear financial responsibility for textile waste, they must also be actively involved in shaping the implementation of the so-called Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme. Mazura expressed optimism regarding potential dialogue with Minister Schneider, emphasizing the industry’s accumulated expertise and capabilities to contribute to circular economy solutions.
“Our companies possess the knowledge, know-how and abilities to think and act sustainably, within closed loops” Mazura stated. He cautioned the government against erecting further obstacles for the textile sector, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and warned against generating unnecessary costs. The concern highlights a growing tension between environmental regulation and the ongoing pressures faced by German industries striving to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market. The industry’s call for collaboration signals a desire to influence the legislative direction, ensuring that any new policies are both effective and economically viable for German textile businesses.