The European Carpet and Rug Association (ECRA) is taking a bold step toward achieving a circular economy for the carpet and flooring industry by 2030.
Learn more about the ECRA position paper on Extended Producer Responsibility
In its latest position paper, ECRA advocates for the establishment of a harmonized EU-wide Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system that ensures all carpets placed on the EU market are collected, reused, or fully recycled.
Why is an EPR system essential?
The carpet and flooring industry faces significant challenges in transitioning from a linear to a circular economy. Currently, large volumes of carpet waste are not properly managed, resulting in environmental and economic inefficiencies. An EPR system would extend producers‘ responsibility across the entire lifecycle of their products, incentivizing sustainable practices and supporting a circular approach to materials.
A harmonized, EU-wide EPR system is critical to creating a level playing field for all market participants, including importers and non-EU manufacturers. By eliminating fragmented national systems, this approach would foster consistency and efficiency across the industry.
ECRA’s key proposals
- A unified EU-wide EPR framework: Establish a mandatory, harmonized system that includes all types of floor coverings to ensure fair competition.
- Separate collection: Implement an EU-wide infrastructure for the separate collection of carpets to facilitate reuse and recycling.
- Modulated fees: Introduce fee structures that reward sustainable design and penalize less eco-friendly products.
- Digital product passport: Make digital product passports mandatory to enhance traceability and streamline recycling processes.
- Green public procurement: Advocate for mandatory use of recycled materials in public sector projects to create demand for sustainable products.
- Stronger export controls: Restrict the export of valuable recyclable waste outside the EU to ensure resources remain within the region.
Addressing the challenge of dual classification
ECRA also highlights the regulatory challenge of carpets being classified as both construction products and textiles. This dual classification has led to:
- Complex compliance: Manufacturers face difficulties navigating multiple regulatory frameworks.
- Increased costs: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are disproportionately affected by the additional compliance burdens.
- Inefficient recycling practices: Differing rules create inconsistencies in waste collection and recycling systems.
- Innovation barriers: Design and development of sustainable products are hindered by overlapping regulatory requirements.
Moving forward: A unified vision
ECRA strongly believes in creating a robust and comprehensive EPR system that drives the industry toward sustainability. This system should not only reduce environmental impacts but also promote innovation and economic growth across the carpet and flooring sector.
The path to a circular future
By aligning with the EU and other stakeholders, ECRA aims to pave the way for a fully circular economy. Through collaboration, harmonized regulations, and innovative practices, the carpet and flooring industry can set an example for other sectors on how to achieve long-term sustainability.
ECRA’s call to action
For more detailed insights into ECRA’s vision and recommendations for a circular economy in the carpet and flooring industry, we invite you to download the full position paper. Together, we can work toward a sustainable future for our industry and beyond.