The European Environment Agency (EEA) reports that in 2022, the average EU citizen consumed 19 kg of clothing, footwear, and household textiles up from 17 kg in 2019. This surge underscores the escalating environmental and climate pressures linked to textile production and consumption. The EEA emphasises the urgent need for a systemic shift towards more durable, reusable, and recyclable textiles to mitigate these impacts.    

Key Takeaways:

• Rising consumption: Average per capita textile consumption in the EU reached 19 kg in 2022, comprising 8 kg of clothing, 7 kg of household textiles, and 4 kg of footwear.  
• Environmental impact: Textile consumption ranks fifth among EU household consumption categories for environmental and climate pressures, contributing significantly to raw material usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and water and land use.  
• Fast fashion influence: The proliferation of fast fashion, driven by online shopping and social media trends, has led to increased production and consumption, exacerbating environmental challenges.
• Need for circularity: The EEA advocates for a transition to circular textile systems, emphasising the production of high-quality goods designed for longevity, repairability, and recyclability.
• Policy implications: Achieving a sustainable textile sector requires coordinated efforts from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers to shift away from the fast-fashion model towards more sustainable practices.

The EEA’s findings highlight the pressing need for transformative changes in the EU’s textile consumption and production patterns. Embracing circular economy principles is essential to reduce environmental impacts and foster a more sustainable future.

For more detailed information, please refer to the original EEA briefing here.