California SB 707: The Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024

SG 158/24

In September 2024, California enacted Senate Bill 707 (SB 707), known as the Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024. This landmark legislation establishes the nation's first Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for textiles, making apparel producers accountable for the recycling, reuse and collection of their products.

The fashion industry is a significant contributor to global pollution, accounting for a large portion of carbon emissions. The rise of ‘fast fashion’ and the ‘throwaway culture’ has exacerbated this issue, leading to increased textile waste. To address these environmental challenges, the Responsible Textile Recovery Act establishes a comprehensive framework for textile recycling and waste management. California SB 707 requires apparel and textile producers to form and join a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) to manage the entire lifecycle of textile products – including collection, transportation, repair, sorting, recycling and safe disposal.

The PRO must be approved by the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) by July 1, 2026, and it will create and implement a detailed plan for textile waste management. The department will then set requirements for the program’s execution that producers must adhere by July 1, 2028, to avoid civil penalties. Noncompliant producers will face penalties either upon plan approval or by July 1, 2030, whichever comes first. PROs are also required to submit annual reports detailing their activities and progress, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, the department will maintain a public list of compliant producers, allowing consumers to make informed purchasing choices.

SB 707 covers apparel and textile products, defined to include undergarments, shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, overalls, bodysuits, costumes, vests, dancewear, suits, saris, scarves, tops, leggings, school uniforms, leisurewear, athletic wear, sports uniforms, swimwear, formal wear, onesies, bibs, footwear, handbags, backpacks, knitted and woven accessories, jackets, coats, snow pants, ski pants and everyday workwear uniforms.

SB 707 requires the PRO to create a statewide plan for collecting, transporting, repairing, sorting and recycling used apparel and textile products. This program will include collection systems like drop-off sites and mail-back options, as well as educational outreach for consumers. It must also set performance standards for recovery rates, outline a plan for cleaning and laundering items, and establish measures to manage PFAS and other chemicals to prevent contamination during recycling.

As EPR initiatives gain traction nationwide, other states may adopt similar sustainable fashion and textile recovery laws. Manufacturers, brand owners, distributors and retailers of apparel and textile products should closely monitor CalRecycle's rulemaking process under SB 707, as well as any future developments in California's stewardship program. Producers will need to join a PRO, assess their waste management practices, implement textile recycling programs, keep detailed records and submit annual reports to CalRecycle. Additionally, collaborating with suppliers and educating consumers about recycling will be crucial for effective compliance.

Reference:

• Press Release
• SB 707 Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024

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