EU backs TexMat textile recycling scheme
A new European project aims to change how people return and recycle used clothing. The TexMat initiative has secured €6 million in EU funding to develop a deposit return scheme for post-consumer textiles.
The project focuses on improving collection rates. At the same time, it seeks to cut the environmental impact of discarded clothing across Europe.
Using incentives to boost textile returns
TexMat centres on a deposit return model that rewards people for returning unwanted garments. Because of this financial incentive, more textiles should re-enter reuse and recycling systems.
In addition, the scheme helps reduce the amount of clothing sent to landfill or incineration. It also notifies producers when items require formal waste handling, which supports compliance with upcoming EU rules.
Elina Ilén, TexMat Project Leader at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, said the system could reshape how valuable used garments move into second-hand markets while allowing consumers to earn money from returns.
Smart containers and digital tracking
The scheme uses automated collection containers with built-in sorting capabilities. These units assess garment quality and identify materials during the return process.
Digital product passports play a key role. These passports store information about how each item was made, which helps determine whether it should be reused, resold, or recycled.
As a result, sorting becomes faster and more accurate. The system also reduces reliance on manual labour while improving decision-making across the recovery process.
From resale to recycling
The technology separates items suitable for second-hand sale from damaged or low-quality textiles. Reusable garments move quickly into resale channels. Meanwhile, worn items follow approved recycling or disposal routes.
This structured approach increases efficiency across the textile value chain.
Funding and pilot projects
The European Union is supporting TexMat through its Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. The €6 million investment will fund the development and testing of the scheme.
To validate the model, pilot trials will take place in Finland and Spain. These trials will measure consumer engagement, technical reliability, and scalability.
A Europe-wide partnership
The project runs until March 2029 and involves 14 partners from seven EU countries. Participants include research bodies, universities, and industry groups.
Estonian company Protex Balti is working on integrating digital product passports into garments. At the same time, firms in Spain and Italy are developing smart containers and digital systems.
As EU rules on textile waste tighten, TexMat could offer a scalable solution for sustainable textile collection and recycling across Europe.
