This background report is part of the initiative “Changing consumer behaviour towards increased prevention of textile waste”. The aim of the initiative  is to communicate to consumers how to prevent textile waste.

In this project, textiles cover both clothes/apparel and household textiles like curtains, bedding and towels. Shoes, fur, leatherware and carpets are not included.

Waste is defined as all items which people do not  need any longer and which they either intend to get rid of or have already discarded.

According to the EU Waste Directive, “prevention” means measures taken before a substance, material or product has become waste. Waste prevention is the highest priority in the waste hierarchy according to the directive. Waste prevention is defined as initiatives that reduce: (a) the quantity of waste, including through re-use of products or the extension of the life span of products; (b) the adverse impacts of the generated waste on the environment and human health; or (c) the content of harmful substances in materials and products.