Manmade, petroleum-based synthetics, such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon, make up 69% of all textile fibers. Tiny particles, known as microfibers or microplastics, from these textiles can enter the environment during all stages–production, use, and end of life, and these do not biodegrade like natural fibers do. According to the 2022 Cotton Inc. Lifestyle Monitor Survey, 66% of consumers are aware that a good deal of microfiber pollution comes as a result of laundering clothing (Salfino, 2022, July 28).
The survey found that 63% of consumers are bothered that brands and retailers use synthetic fibers due to pollution from microplastics, and 65% say their awareness of the issue will impact their future clothing purchases (Salfino, 2022, July 28). It is clear that consumers care about this issue, but do they know how to make an impact? The following are tips for how to help the conscious consumer in everyday life.
Tips on how to join the fight against microplastics
Finding and donating to reputable ocean clean up initiatives is one way to help combat this problem. And of course, purchasing responsibly is key. Buy apparel made from natural fibers. If purchasing something like swimwear or activewear, look for those made of recycled synthetics. It is also helpful to purchase items that have odor control features to ensure that the apparel doesn’t have to be washed after a single use. When synthetic garments are treated with an antimicrobial, wear time is extended and wash time decreases.
Once you own an item, launder responsibly. Joy (2021) provides the following suggestions:
- Washing clothing less frequently saves on CO2 emissions and expensive utility bills. Clothing will last longer and will not release microfibers as quickly.
- Washing items in cold water is gentler on them, which means less breakdown and reduced microfiber release.
- Separate rough textiles from softer ones so that they cause less abrasion and microfiber shedding. Avoid washing shoes with clothing.
- Use a lower spin setting to lessen abrasion.
- Air dry clothing to use less energy, release less CO2, and lessen impact on clothing as well as microfiber release.
- Use a microfiber filter.
Looking ahead
The United Nations Environment Programme reports that there are half a million tons of microplastics released into the ocean each year; this is the equivalent of disposing of 275,577 cars in the ocean annually (Salfino, 2022, July 21). Brands, retailers, and consumers must all invest in cutting down on microfiber pollution for the sake of the environment.
References
Joy, E. (2021, June 16). Fashion, microplastic pollution, and how you can take action. Conscious Life & Style. https://www.consciouslifeandstyle.com/fast-fashion-microfibre-pollution-solutions/#:~:text=Air%20dry%20your%20clothes.,be%20released%20in%20the%20dryer
Salfino, C. (2022, July 21). How fashion can give the people what they want. Sourcing Journal. https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/lifestyle-monitor/world-oceans-day-polyester-acrylic-microplastics-changing-markets-greenwash-356019/
Salfino, C. (2022, July 28). How fashion can combat microplastic pollution. Sourcing Journal. https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/lifestyle-monitor/how-fashion-can-combat-microplastic-pollution-textile-fibers-dl1961-357351/
