Regulatory Push for Circularity: The Impact of EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles

The textile industry is one of the most resource-intensive and polluting sectors globally, driven by fast fashion and a linear production model that relies heavily on virgin materials and generates excessive waste. In response to the mounting environmental and social challenges, the European Union has introduced new Strategies toward Sustainable and Circular Textiles to accelerate the industry's transition toward circularity. This review examines the regulatory instruments, policy frameworks, and strategic initiatives—like the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and Digital Product Passports—that aim to reduce environmental impacts, promote recycling, and encourage product longevity. It also explores the alignment of the EU strategy with broader sustainability goals, including the European Green Deal and global climate agreements. The study highlights both the transformative potential and implementation challenges of circular policies in the textile supply chain, emphasizing the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration, consumer responsibility, and supportive infrastructure. The paper concludes that regulatory frameworks play a pivotal role in reshaping the future of textiles and fostering a sustainable, closed-loop economy.