In 2025, the European Commission adopted an amendment to the Waste Framework Directive requiring all Member States to establish Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems for textiles, textile‑related products, and footwear by 17 April 2028. Member States must also create a national register of obligated producers to ensure effective oversight and enforcement of EPR obligations.
As an EU Member State with a significant and globally recognised textile and fashion industry, Italy is required to implement these measures. Given the sector's economic importance, it is unsurprising that several legislative drafts have already been issued to align national requirements with EU expectations and to support a smooth transition for businesses.
Draft Decree for the Establishment of the Liability Regime Manufacturers' Extension for the Textile Products Supply Chain:
Last year the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security published a draft decree introducing an EPR framework for textiles in Italy. Under the proposal, producers would be required to establish or join a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) and pay corresponding compliance fees.
The draft sets out collection targets, beginning at 15% by weight in 2026 and rising to 40% by 2035. Producers would also be required to register with the national producer register, consistent with EU obligations within 120 days of the decree's publication. Registration would be mandatory prior to placing textile products on the Italian market and would apply equally to distance sellers.
The decree further outlines a series of eco‑design principles and preventive measures, including:
• Promoting sustainable product design and production practices
• Enhancing transparency through reporting and supply‑chain traceability
• Encouraging the use of recycled textile materials
• Supporting circular business models
The introduction of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) is also foreseen, in alignment with EU level requirements.
Provisions to Reduce the Environmental Impact of Rapidly Changing Fashion and Combat Fast Fashion:
Italy has also advanced additional measures aimed at mitigating the environmental impacts associated with fast fashion. A separate proposal introduces an eco‑score system (SNET) designed to classify the environmental footprint of textile products on a scale from A to E, with E representing the highest impact.
The scoring methodology would consider factors such as:
• Production conditions and locations
• Origin, quality, and composition of materials
• Logistics and distribution practices
• Durability and repairability of garments
Depending on the assigned score, products may be subject to additional obligations, including potential environmental contributions.
Need Support?
With EU compliance deadlines quickly approaching, producers should ensure that they have assessed and adapted their operations accordingly. Ongoing preparation will be essential to meet obligations and avoid regulatory disruptions as additional requirements are phased in. If you are a producer or stakeholder seeking clarity on how recent and upcoming amendments affect your responsibilities, get in touch with us today to learn more about your obligations and how to stay compliant.