Robbert has been constructing for the Netherlands Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles which will be effective from 1 July 2023 where the Netherlands is one of the first introducing such regulation in Europe and globally.

As a result of the EPR regulation for textiles, the polluter pays principle now applies manufacturers, importers, and distributors of textile products. They bear the costs and must ensure individually or collectively that they comply with the legal requirements with respect to collection, reuse and recycling of discarded textile products.

In Europe EPR already applies to cars, batteries and accumulators, electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), packaging and single use plastics (SUP).

Robbert incorporated his experience working in one of the largest textile collectors in the Netherlands: Sympany that is aiming at creating circular textiles. In that role he established several companies and advised on a major merger in the sector. Robbert was the first to implement the idea 35 years ago to place containers in cities to collect discarded textiles.

Robbert is excited to share and engage with the NHKBA 21 June 2023 audience.

Paula Kant is Head of Investment Promotion, InvestHK Brussels