Measuring and improving the environmental impact of the textile sector
The environmental assessment of the used textiles and footwear EPR scheme, covering items from household consumption, is part of an ongoing commitment to transparency and the continuous evaluation of impacts associated with the collection, sorting and processing of used textiles, household linen and footwear.
It is based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) covering nearly 272,000 tonnes of textiles and footwear collected in 2025, encompassing all end-of-life pathways within the sector, from second-hand resale to various recycling streams. Its scope has been expanded compared to previous editions, with the integration of two complementary studies on CHF repair and the treatment of textiles and footwear in municipal solid waste.
The methodology was subject to an independent review to ensure its reliability.
A net positive environmental balance
The results demonstrate net environmental benefits:
- 480,000 tonnes of CO2e in carbon benefits, equivalent to the annual carbon emissions of 25,000 French citizens,
- 64% of carbon benefits are generated through the substitution of new products by second-hand textiles and footwear, and 33% through materials derived from recycling,
- 2.6 billion m³ of water saved by the sector, equivalent to 1 million Olympic swimming pools.
Key takeaway
All recovery pathways are complementary, as they address different waste streams. Each one, including Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) recovery, delivers a net environmental benefit compared to incinerating textiles and footwear in municipal solid waste, confirming the value of developing separate textiles and footwear collection.
A compass for accelerating the transition
The study provides a reference baseline for all stakeholders in the sector, with the aim of informing decision-making and identifying areas for improvement. The summary of the study based on 2025 data is available below.