EU ban on destruction of unsold clothes and shoes takes effect from 19 July 2026 (environment.ec.europa.eu)

• Large EU companies banned from destroying unsold clothes and shoes from 19 July 2026; medium-sized firms from 2030.
• Ban is part of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR); reuse, donation, or recycling must be prioritised.
• Exemptions for unsafe, counterfeit, or damaged items require proof and annual reporting; small/micro firms exempt.

"From 19 July 2026, large EU companies are prohibited from destroying unsold clothes, clothing accessories, and footwear under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). Medium-sized companies must comply from 2030. Businesses must prioritise selling, donating, or preparing items for reuse. Exemptions exist for unsafe, counterfeit, or damaged goods, subject to proof and annual reporting. National authorities enforce the ban with fines. Small and micro-enterprises are exempt. The European Environment Agency estimates 4–9% of all textile products in Europe are destroyed before use, amounting to 264,000–594,000 tonnes annually."