Luxembourg Tackles Textile Overconsumption and Improves Garment Industry Conditions

Luxembourg is taking significant steps to address the challenges of textile overconsumption, improve working conditions in garment production, and extend the lifespan of clothing. A recent in-depth study conducted by the non-profit organizations Fairtrade Lëtzebuerg and Caritas Luxembourg, as part of the Rethink Your Clothes campaign, has shed light on the textile consumption habits in the country.

The study, which surveyed 944 people, revealed that two-thirds of the population consider it important to be informed about issues related to the textile sector. While 33% of the population is already aware and checks clothing labels, the study also highlighted the problem of overconsumption, particularly among young people aged 16-24, with 32-37% buying clothes regularly.

Luxembourg residents are cognizant of the two major challenges in the textile sector: stopping overconsumption and extending the lifespan of clothing (44%), and guaranteeing better working conditions for textile industry employees (37%). The study found that two-thirds of respondents consider it important for promotional clothing to be manufactured according to standards that respect human rights and the environment, and 55% want more transparency from companies regarding working conditions in their supply chain.

Why this matters: The textile industry has a significant environmental and social impact globally. Luxembourg's efforts to address these issues through consumer awareness, improved working conditions, and extended clothing lifespan serve as a model for other countries to follow. By promoting responsible consumption and production practices, Luxembourg is contributing to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

In a related development, the European Parliament has approved new legislation that will prohibit the sale, import, and export of goods manufactured using forced labour within the EU from 2027. The regulation extends its reach to online sales, with shipments intercepted at the EU's borders to prevent the circulation of goods produced through exploitative labour practices. Non-compliant companies risk facing fines, while banned goods may be readmitted to the market once the company demonstrates the elimination of forced labour from its supply chains.

Furthermore, the European Parliament has adopted a 'right to repair' directive that requires manufacturers to provide timely and cost-effective repair services and inform consumers about their rights to repair. Goods repaired under warranty will receive an additional one-year extension of the legal guarantee, incentivizing consumers to choose repair over replacement. These efforts are part of the EU's long-term plan to halve waste by 2030 by prioritizing textile reuse and recycling.

The study by Fairtrade Lëtzebuerg and Caritas Luxembourg found that 79% of respondents think that public institutions should promote a certified ethical, fair, and sustainable textile sector. "Almost half of respondents would be encouraged to consume clothing more responsibly if there was a greater supply of clothing made from recycled materials or second-hand clothing, and nearly one in two people want a wider range of Fairtrade-certified clothing in stores," the study revealed.

Key Takeaways

• Luxembourg study finds 66% value awareness of textile industry issues.
• EU to ban goods made with forced labor from 2027; requires repair services.
• 79% of respondents want public institutions to promote ethical textile sector.
• 48% want more recycled/second-hand clothing; 47% want more Fairtrade options.
• Efforts aim to address textile overconsumption, working conditions, and lifespan.