Post-consumer textiles in the global arena: single market and resource optimization as key drivers

The concept of a single market plays a crucial role in streamlining the trade and management of post-consumer textiles, particularly in the context of global commerce. By removing barriers to trade within a unified market structure, there is an opportunity to optimize the recovery, reuse, and recycling of textiles on a larger scale. This approach not only facilitates the efficient flow of materials across borders but also encourages collaboration among countries and industries. 

Defining and harmonizing standards within the EU and global trade are crucial factors in establishing a circular economy for textiles. 

Today's panel will explore how this vision can be achieved while simultaneously addressing the need for transparency and correct handling respecting the environmental risk elements. 

Program 

Introduction by the Chair 
Karina Bolin, UNIRAU 

End of Waste and clear quality requirement for reuse item
Speaker, JRC 

The Single Market, an important factor to create circularity for textile 
Speaker, Recycling Europe 

Global Trade of second-hand goods 
Speaker, BIR 

Speech by Sirma Zheleva, Head of the Sustainability Unit at TexCycle and Executive Director of Bulgarian Association Circular Textile (BACT)

Q&A, Discussion and Closing Remarks by the Chair