Microfiber filter: reduces microplastic emissions from washing machines
June 2023
Cup of plastic soup?
Every year on June 8, World Oceans Day takes place and attention is drawn to the protection of the world's oceans. The oceans are currently polluted with at least 4.20 to 7.19 million tons of microplastic. Surprisingly, the biggest source of this pollution seems to be doing laundry. Research shows that about 35% of the wandering microplastic comes from the synthetic microfibers that are released during the washing of textiles, such as clothing and bedding. These plastic particles are smaller than 5 mm and eventually end up in the sea via the water drained from the washing machine.
From synthetic fabrics, microplastic fibers are constantly released into the air and water, which are harmful to the environment since they’re not biodegradable. Although natural materials, such as cotton and wool, do not shed microplastic fibres, they are not completely innocent in their contribution to environmental pollution. Microfibers are still released from these fabrics, which are less likely to degrade due to textile dye and other chemical processes and therefore accumulate in the environment.
Microplastic particles don't just harm marine life. They also end up in drinking water and sea salt, for example, and in our food via food chains. This means that we are constantly being exposed to chemical, harmful substances.
PlanetCare Microfiber filter
One way to contribute to the reduction of microplastics in the environment is to connect a special filter to the washing machine. With a microfiber filter for washing machines, the wastewater is first filtered before it is discharged. This traps fibers and prevents the harmful microplastics from your laundry from ending up in the environment. A step in the right direction! Several suppliers have brought such filters to the market, but the PlanetCare microfiber filter is the most effective solution with a proven efficiency of up to 90%.
For more information, visit: https://planetcare.org/
