France targets fast fashion with new environmental law
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Starting September 1, manufacturers of ultra-fast fashion in France will pay an environmental and packaging tax to the French state, based on the ecological score of each item.
The tax could add up to 2 euros for a t-shirt and 12 euros for a jacket. France intends to use the revenue to fund textile recycling, repair services, and support brands that prioritize environmentally friendly production. In January 2027, France will also ban advertising for ultra-fast fashion.
This legislation responds to the environmental impact of the textile industry, which currently accounts for up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure projected to rise to 26% by 2050. Lawmaker Anne-Cécile Violland initiated the law three years ago, aiming to curb the rapid growth of ultra-fast fashion brands like Shein, which can release up to 7,000 new items daily. Violland also stated that this type of clothing can harm health and exploit workers.
France, historically a center for haute couture, now imports 87% of its fashion, and the law also seeks to protect local expertise and jobs by supporting domestic manufacturers. While some in France argue the law doesn’t go far enough. It originally targeted European brands like H&M and Zara but was amended to focus on brands originating in China, others point to lobbying from the textile industry as a reason for the change.
