Reducing plastic waste, carbon emissions and lowering our industry's overall carbon footprint are all key points to consider in modern industrial management. As so often happens, when the public places so much political importance on an issue, regulations from the government level usually follow. The European Commission is set to implement a series of laws including the upcoming EU Textile Strategy, the Sustainable Product Initiative and other relevant legislation which will dramatically change the way businesses is done in order to help Europe reach environmental objectives. 

This can prove challenging at times, as the long and complex network of supply chains which define the textile service industry make transparency and accountability sometimes more difficult and can prove to be a burdensome regulation for some textile service firms, particularly smaller ones.

Difficulties aside,  Textile services, and rented textiles are the future. Renting textiles from suppliers have several distinct advantages over disposable alternatives from a lower carbon footprint, to creating more jobs (particularly on the local level) to having significant hygienic and logistical advantages. 

Nevertheless this industry has shown itself to be one with an incredible fortitude and propensity to adapt to change. With changes and a new climate of priorities on the horizon from the EU, it is up to us, the textile service industry to find the most optimal way to create an ever more innovative and sustainable relationship with our suppliers, members and national associations.