The Pat Kenny Show We hear about the new digital product passport
Nov 20, 2025
Jo Linehan, a climate journalist and sustainability expert, dives into the challenging world of sustainable fashion. She discusses the EU's new Digital Product Passport, which aims to help consumers trace garment origins via QR codes. Linehan highlights the dangers of greenwashing and shares insights from a study on eco-labels that simplify shopping decisions. She also emphasizes the certification value of Oeko-Tex and the potential impact of the passport on retail practices, noting its gradual rollout and implications for small suppliers.
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Greenwashing Hides True Sustainability
- Greenwashing has made it very hard for shoppers to know what clothing is truly sustainable.
- Jo Linehan says consumers struggle to verify origin and materials when inspecting items in store.
Ireland's Very High Textile Consumption
- Ireland consumes about double the EU average of textiles at 53 kg per person each year.
- Jo Linehan highlights high national consumption without clear reasons beyond lifestyle and socialising.
Prefer Simple A–E Colour Labels
- Use simple, clear labels to make sustainable choices quickly in store.
- Jo Linehan cites an ESRI A–E colour-coded system that helped shoppers choose greener options.