It has been proposed to introduce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles in Norway from 1 January 2027.

In a press release published on 28 October 2025, the Norwegian Environment Agency proposed introducing a textile EPR scheme as early as 1 January 2027. Such a scheme would mean that producers and importers of clothing, footwear and other textiles, including online retailers, must finance the collection and treatment of textile waste. Today, these costs are largely borne by municipalities. Under the new system, producers would also be responsible for ensuring that textiles are managed in an environmentally sound manner when they can no longer be used.

The most significant element of the proposal is the introduction of producer responsibility itself. This means that producers and importers of clothing, footwear and other textiles, including online retailers, will be responsible for covering the costs of collecting and treating textile waste. In addition, they must ensure that textiles are properly managed at end of life in an environmentally sustainable way.

To fulfil these obligations, companies covered by the scheme will be required to join an approved Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO). NORSIRK has already announced its intention to apply for approval as a PRO once the authorities open the application process.

NORSIRK currently operates ten producer responsibility schemes under one organisation and plans to expand its portfolio to include both textiles and aquaculture-related schemes in the future.

The Norwegian Environment Agency will now send the proposed regulation for public consultation. NORSIRK will ensure that stakeholders are informed when the consultation opens and will actively contribute its own input to the authorities.

With more than 25 years of experience operating producer responsibility schemes, we believe it is important to contribute our expertise on behalf of our customers and producers to help ensure the best possible framework for the future textile EPR system.

Key Elements of the Norwegian Environment Agency’s Recommendation

• The collection system should build on existing arrangements, and municipalities should retain their current responsibilities.
• Producers must join approved Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) that ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements.
• Producer Responsibility Organisations must cooperate with municipalities and social economy actors and cover their necessary costs related to collection and waste management.
• Producers must provide information to the public on how textiles can be used for as long as possible, reused where appropriate, and disposed of correctly.
• The Norwegian Environment Agency proposes that the new rules enter into force on 1 January 2027.

More information is available in the Norwegian Environment Agency’s press release.

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