EN
Login
The GGA and the UPV in the NetherlandsThe GGA and the UPV in the Netherlands

The GGA and the UPV in the Netherlands

Since 1 July 2023, the UPV (Extended Producer Responsibility scheme) has been in effect in the Netherlands for textiles, including workwear and safety apparel. This legislation creates specific obligations for producers and importers. This page explains what the UPV involves, which organizations it applies to, and how the Green Gear Alliance (GGA) can assist you.

What is the UPV?

UPV stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. This regulation obligates producers and importers to take responsibility for the end-of-life phase of the products they place on the market. It is a European measure to stimulate circularity.

The aims of the UPV include collecting more products after use; promoting reuse and recycling; reducing waste; and limiting the use of new raw materials.

Producers can currently still carry out these obligations individually, but in the future will be required to join a Producer Organisation (PRO) that collectively executes the legal obligations.

The GGA is not a Producer Organisation, but does seek collaboration with existing PROs.

Who does the UPV apply to?

The UPV applies when your organization places products on the Dutch market for the first time.

This can be the case, for example, when you:

  • are a producer of workwear or safety shoes;
  • have products manufactured under your own brand;
  • import products from abroad;
  • sell products from another EU member state in the Netherlands.

You can also be classified as a producer when you have products manufactured by third parties under your own brand name.

Second-hand products are not subject to the UPV obligation.

Aim of the UPVAim of the UPV

Aim of the UPV

"The goal is to collect, reuse and recycle more and better end-of-life products. And to encourage greater use of recycled textile in products."

What do I need to do to comply with the UPV?

To comply with the UPV, producers and importers must:

1. Register with a Producer Organisation (PRO)
Through a PRO, your UPV obligations are collectively managed.

2. Report to the PRO
Annually report how many products you have placed on the Dutch market. You pay a UPV contribution per kilogram of textile you place on the Dutch market.

3. Contribute to the targets
Contribute to the legal targets for collection, reuse and recycling. Through a Producer Organisation, these obligations are collectively fulfilled.

4. Join the GGA
Joining the GGA is not mandatory to meet your UPV obligation. With your contribution, you do help with the actual collection and recycling of PPE. The GGA ensures that circularity is not just an administrative obligation, but is also put into practice.