The Bangor Sustainability Lab, in collaboration with the Textile Recycling Association (TRA) and the European Bureau for International Recycling (BIR) have developed a win-win strategy demonstrating how both exporting and importing countries can trade together without compromising each other’s development. The new strategy developed by Jalia offers solutions for both sides: the people in the EAC; and the exporting countries that depend on this trade for employment and clothing (particularly charities, which depend on the trade to raise funds; and Local Authorities through redirecting clothes from landfill).
We are also exploring the opportunities that can be harnessed if the EAC collaborates with the UK and other exporting countries.

To Influence the outcome of the EAC directive, Co-I Jalia Packwood (who is from Uganda originally) will meet with the Finance and Trade Ministers, as well as the EAC ministries of each of the five EAC countries with the aim for the proposed strategy to be considered at the next EAC Finance and Trade Ministers’ meeting in October, where they will take decisions regarding the recently passed directive. EAC Ministers report back to the Presidents about their strategies.

If successfully adopted, Packwood’s and Young’s strategy could influence East African Community policy on Used Textile and Leather products trade and protect the livelihoods of millions of people in East Africa and many thousands in the UK. It will also provide opportunities for collaboration with the exporting countries to grow the EAC textile Industry.