Lithuania earmarks 6.2 million euros to boost textile recycling capacity

Lithuania is launching a significant initiative to bolster its textile recycling infrastructure, allocating 6.2 million euros to expand processing capabilities. The Central Project Management Agency (CPVA) has opened a new call for waste management companies to apply for this funding, with applications accepted until August 17.

Environment Vice Minister Agvilė Gargasaitė stated that the investment is crucial for tackling the escalating volume of textile waste and the current limitations in its management. The program seeks to stimulate investments that will create more opportunities within Lithuania to convert textile waste into valuable new raw materials and products, thereby advancing the country's circular economy objectives.

Currently, Lithuania's textile recycling capacity is limited, with only a few companies processing textile waste into lower-value items like rags or non-woven materials. In 2024, approximately 13,000 tons of textile waste were collected separately in Lithuania, representing about one-fifth of all municipal textile waste. Of this collected waste, 67% was prepared for reuse.

On a broader scale, the European Union generates around 12.6 million tons of textile waste annually, with clothing and footwear accounting for a substantial 5.2 million tons of this total. This funding aims to significantly improve Lithuania's contribution to managing this widespread environmental challenge.