Starting January 1, 2025, Sweden will enforce a new law requiring the separate collection of textile waste, including damaged items like socks and underwear.

Municipalities are tasked with managing this process, but approaches vary.

While some cities, like Gothenburg, advise discarding certain items due to workplace safety concerns, others emphasize recycling.

Many municipalities will only accept textile waste at large recycling centers, with fewer options at local collection points.

The law aims to promote recycling and reuse, but challenges remain, such as limited facilities and the pending EU decision on producer responsibility for textile waste.

Non-compliance could result in fines, though enforcement is expected to be lenient.