Reconomy hosts Think Circular Live 25

Reconomy, the leading international circular economy specialist, last week hosted its latest Think Circular Live event focused on the future of textiles and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. The event brought together senior representatives from fashion brands, retailers and producers to explore how the industry is responding to a fast-changing regulatory landscape.

Launched in 2024, Think Circular Live is Reconomy’s dedicated event series aimed at convening business leaders and sustainability professionals to discuss evolving circular economy trends and share practical solutions. This latest session focused on helping brands and producers navigate new and upcoming EPR regulations affecting the textiles industry across the UK and Europe.

The fashion sector is one of the world’s largest and most resource-intensive industries generating significant volumes of waste and emissions across global supply chains. New EPR legislation is set to transform the industry by shifting responsibility for the full lifecycle of textiles onto producers, brands and retailers, requiring them to take greater ownership of the materials they place on the market. Being proactive is therefore essential not just for compliance, but for unlocking value, minimising risk, reducing costs under this scheme and building more resilient supply chains.

During the event, attendees heard from industry experts and sustainability leaders on topics including:

What upcoming EPR legislation means for brands and producers operating or selling across Europe
Expert insights and practical steps on how leading brands and producers are adapting to meet new compliance standards
The role of Digital Product Passports in driving circularity in the textile industry by enabling traceability, transparency and smarter resources

James Beard, Head of Voluntary Compliance at Reconomy brand, Valpak, who hosted the event commented:

“We were delighted to welcome so many forward-thinking brands and producers to this edition of Think Circular Live. With transformative legislation approaching that will shape the future of the textiles industry, it is vital that brands and producers take action now. This event offered tangible, real-world strategies for staying ahead of regulatory changes and building more sustainable textile systems. We look forward to supporting industry leaders as they prepare for this legislation and to advancing the circular economy.”

For further resources and information on preparing for this legislation please visit our Extended Producer Responsibility page.