Industry News
European Parliament adopts new EU rules to reduce textile waste
T
he European Parliament has given its final green light to measures to prevent waste from textiles across the EU. Producers will have to cover the costs of their collection, sorting and recycling, through new producer responsibility (EPR) schemes to be set up by each member state, within 30 months of the directive’s entry into force. These provisions will apply to all producers, including those using e-commerce tools and irrespective of whether they are established in an EU country or outside the Union. Micro-enterprises will have an extra year to comply with the EPR requirements.
James Beard, head of voluntary compliance at Valpak – a brand by circular economy specialists Reconomy, said: “The European Parliament’s adoption of new rules on textile waste marks a landmark moment for the industry. The ruling means that, over the coming years, producers selling textiles into the EU will need to take direct financial responsibility for the collection, sortation, and recycling of textile products once they reach the end of their life.
“With the EU generating more than 12 million tonnes of textile waste annually, this legislation will accelerate the move towards circular business models and more sustainable consumption.
Solar panels installation to save Zebra Print £14k a year
F
amily-owned Zebra Print has installed 88 solar panels at its Yorkshire headquarters which is expected to generate 48MWh of clean energy annually, covering around 45% of the business’ total energy needs.
This installation will offset 9.4 tonnes of carbon emissions every year and deliver cost savings of approximately £14,000 – equating to a 50% reduction in annual energy bills.
The investment, which carries a projected return on investment of just 3.3 years, is part of Zebra Print Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and reducing its scope 1 emissions.
Samantha Overton, managing director at Zebra Print Group, said: “At Zebra Print Group, we’re proud to be taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future.
The installation of the solar panels marks a significant milestone in our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and operating more responsibly.
“As a business that thrives on innovation and forward-thinking, investing in renewable energy was a natural progression and one that aligns with both our company values and the expectations of our clients. It’s not just about reducing costs, it’s about doing what’s right for our planet and future generations.”
Zebra Print Group’s move into solar follows a number of other green initiatives, including the introduction of electric vehicles into its fleet, a cartridge return programme in partnership with Xerox and ink recycling. The business is also a registered partner of the Woodland Trust’s carbon capture scheme.
“That said, the requirements will bring added costs and operational pressures for producers at a time when many are already under strain. The challenge will be to balance these new financial obligations with the need to remain competitive.
“Businesses that act early to improve data systems, redesign products with circularity in mind, and collaborate across the reuse and recycling value chain will be best placed to absorb the impact while unlocking new efficiencies and opportunities.”
EU countries will have 20 months following its entry into force to transpose the rules into national legislation.
Pantone matched socks by Kingly
Brand colours can now be Pantone matched
K
ingly can now ensure that brand colours are exactly matched and consistently reproduced in every production run through its official Pantone license.
The solar panel installation at Zebra Print | 10 | October 2025
This breakthrough is powered by Kingly’s GOTS-certified European dyehouse, where speed, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility work in perfect balance. Rob Armour, CEO of Kingly, said: “The planet chose us. Now it’s your turn. “We are redefining what precision and responsibility mean in our industry.” Every pair of socks leaving Kingly’s facilities carries the assurance of full certification and Cradle-to-Gate verification. Adding to this milestone, Kingly has become the first sock knitting company to achieve EcoVadis Platinum status, a recognition that places the company among the top 1% of sustainable businesses worldwide.
www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk
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