The textile industry is entering a new era of transparency.

The latest article from Ecotextile News—accompanied by an excellent short film—shows how denim manufacturers are already preparing for the EU’s upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP) requirements. Rather than waiting for legislation to take effect, many companies are investing now in the systems needed to collect, manage and share product information across the value chain.

This transition is being driven by the EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), which will introduce Digital Product Passports for priority product groups, including textiles, through future delegated acts.

For the textile sector, this is much more than a new reporting requirement. It is an opportunity to improve:
🧵 supply chain transparency,
♻️ circularity and recycling,
🛠️ durability and repairability,
⚖️ regulatory compliance, and
🧪 information on chemicals used in textile products.

The importance of better product information extends beyond manufacturing. At the recent Basel Convention OEWG-15 meeting, governments also advanced work on addressing the growing challenge of used textiles and textile waste, recognizing the need for clearer rules and improved oversight of transboundary movements. Better traceability and access to product information will be essential for distinguishing reusable textiles from waste and for supporting environmentally sound management across international value chains.

Chemical transparency will be essential if Digital Product Passports are to support safe circularity. Recyclers, brands, regulators, procurers and consumers all need access to reliable information to make informed decisions and prevent hazardous chemicals from circulating in recycled materials.

The article and film provide a valuable glimpse into how manufacturers are preparing for this transformation—and why collaboration across the entire textile value chain will be critical to making Digital Product Passports a success.

The future of textiles is not only circular—it must also be transparent.