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BRUSSELS. – Recent data has shown that a whopping 90% of used clothes and textile waste from European countries have been making its way to Africa and Asia through exports.
This concerning trend, brought to light by the European Environment Agency (EEA), emphasizes the alarming impact of textile waste on the environment and climate change, ranking it as the fourth most significant source of pressure resulting from European consumption.
With sustainability in waste management practices becoming increasingly crucial, these findings shed light on the pressing demand for heightened responsibility within the global textile trade.
Europe’s heavy reliance on Asia and Africa for low-cost manufacturing has led to an overabundance of used clothes and textile waste, causing serious environmental concerns. This practice has been profitable for businesses but has resulted in alarming consequences for the environment.
According to a report by the EEA, the production and consumption of textiles in the European Union have a significant negative impact on the environment and climate. Within the value chain, textile consumption ranks high in land use and water consumption, coming in third place. It also ranks fifth in material resource utilization and greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the production of textiles introduces chemicals that further harm the environment and contribute to climate change.
One major issue of concern is the widespread use of synthetic textiles, which are derived from fossil fuel resources. These materials are found in various aspects of daily life.. – africanews.com
Online Reporter