US org SMART & others demand for QR codes in textile labelling

The move would advance sustainability, circularity, and authenticity solutions in the fashion and textile recycling industries. #CutTheTape benefits consumers by providing more product information using digital means, SMART said in a press release. 

Each year, approximately 5.7 million miles (about 9.2 million kms) of labelling tape are produced, which is long enough to stretch from the earth to the moon and back twelve times. Labelling requirements have not been updated since the 1960s. Current outdated labelling requirements are inconsistent and hinder efforts to trace the origins of materials to be more sustainable and support a circular economy.

Digital technology solutions—such as QR code labels—would reduce labelling waste and eliminate at least 343,000 MT of emissions from industry supply chains while providing consumers with more detailed and accurate product information. The data would also aid in the garment’s lifecycle, by providing details about resale, repair, rental, upcycling, or recycling. SMART has urged the United States Federal Trade Commission and other entities worldwide to use digital means to standardise labelling requirements. 

The association has also asked government regulators to amend international, national, and local regulations to allow fully digital labelling solutions to be adopted. QR codes would make products more useful and valuable for longer periods in the circular economy while unlocking new opportunities for resale, repair, rental, upcycling, or recycling. 

SMART president Steve Rees explained, “Greener e-labelling clears the way for transparency and accountability in the global textile recycling space. 

“QR codes will empower consumers by providing more accessible information and key data that can strategically extend a garment’s or an item’s lifecycle as it moves through the resilient reuse and recycle distribution chain.”

SMART has called on legislative leaders to take immediate action to create stringent digital labelling guidelines, which will lead to more responsible outcomes, helping the world economy and the environment.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB)