Global group selected to implement California’s Textile Recovery Act

The State of California has selected Landbell USA Inc. to implement the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707). This initiative aims to reduce textile waste by requiring producers to participate in a managed recovery system, including collection, reuse, and recycling of textiles statewide.

The State of California has officially designated Landbell USA Inc. as the Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) to carry out the implementation of the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707). This legislation is aimed at reducing textile waste in landfills by requiring textile and apparel producers to participate in a managed recovery system.

Selection of Landbell USA

Following a competitive selection process, Landbell USA was chosen over other applicants, including the Circular Textile Alliance and the Textile Renewal Alliance. All organizations submitted applications before the January 1, 2026, deadline. The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) disclosed its selection decision on March 1. Landbell USA, a subsidiary of the international Landbell Group, was selected based on its extensive global experience in implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs.

Global Experience of Landbell USA

Landbell USA operates under the Landbell Group, which has over 30 years of expertise in EPR across multiple industries, including textiles, electronics, batteries, and packaging. The group manages 42 PROs in 18 countries and has handled textile waste in the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. The company's reputation and international experience were key factors in its selection. Landbell USA also holds an Ecovadis Gold rating, placing it among the top 5% of global companies in sustainability practices.

Responsibilities of the PRO

The legislation requires a comprehensive system to manage textile waste throughout California, serving both urban and rural populations. Landbell USA's strategy involves establishing an extensive network of collection bins and collaborating with retailers to provide convenient drop-off locations. The program emphasizes repair and reuse of textiles, with recycling as the final step if the first two options are not feasible.

Key Features of Landbell USA's Plan

• 15,800 municipal collection bins, covering approximately 2,500 residents per bin
• Retail partnerships to expand accessible drop-off points
• Public messaging campaign promoting repair, reuse, and recycling under the slogan "Mend it. Wear it. Pass it On."

Engagement with Thrift Organizations

Thrift organizations, including Goodwill and the Salvation Army, will play a central role in the program. They will receive financial support to collect, sort, and redistribute textiles. Unsold items may be exported to international secondhand markets, adhering to ISO standards and U.S. regulations for transboundary shipments.

Recycling Approaches

Recycling is treated as the third priority after repair and reuse. Mechanical recycling will be handled by domestic facilities, such as cotton regeneration centers. Chemical recycling will address complex material blends. Recyclers must demonstrate proof of concept and obtain CalRecycle approval before participating.

Digital Platform

Landbell USA offers a digital platform to manage program operations, including registration, brand lists, fee calculations, needs assessments, and transportation logistics. This platform ensures transparency, data accuracy, and compliance with audit requirements.

Governance Structure

The PRO will be governed by a Producer Board, an Ex Officio Board, and an Advisory Committee. The Producer Board will include California-based companies of varied sizes and product ranges, as well as international producers. The Ex Officio Board will consist of experts in textile technology, recycling, and regulatory compliance. The Advisory Committee will provide guidance on policy, legislation, and best practices.

Implementation Timeline

Key milestones for SB 707 include:

• July 1: Covered producers must join the PRO
• March 1, 2027: Submission of Needs Assessment
• July 1, 2028: CalRecycle to adopt official rules
• July 1, 2029: Submission of final EPR plan
• January 1, 2030: Full statewide implementation

Pilot Programs

Landbell USA will conduct pilot programs in five California counties: Alameda, Calaveras, Fresno, Monterey, and San Francisco during 2028 and 2029. These counties, representing approximately 10% of the state population, will test collection routes, bin placements, and consumer education efforts. Insights from the pilot phase will inform the statewide rollout.

Challenges for Textile EPR

While Landbell USA's designation as the PRO marks a significant step, practical challenges remain. Issues such as program costs, governance, and operational details are critical for successful implementation. The outcomes of California's Responsible Textile Recovery Act will influence textile waste management practices across the United States, serving as a model for other states.

Sources:

• California selects Landbell USA as PRO for textile EPR - Resource Recycling
• Group With Global Ties to EPR Legislation Chosen to Implement California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act - Sourcing Journal
• CalRecycle Approves Landbell USA as the PRO for California’s Textile EPR Law - Farella Braun + Martel
• Group With Global Ties to EPR Legislation Chosen to Implement California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act

Author: Ethan Caldwell
Ethan Caldwell is an experienced reporter with 10 years covering international news. He specializes in politics and economics, with strong investigative journalism and analytical writing skills.