Life Below Earth Booklet - Flipbook - Page 9
The textile industry is the largest contributor to microplastic
pollution in our oceans. Research shows that synthetic textiles
are the primary source of microplastics, accounting for a 35%
increase in ocean pollution in recent years. Polyester, nylon,
acrylic and other plastic based synthetic textiles are all forms
of plastic and make up 60% of fabric content used in clothing
items. Plastic is a product belonging within the petroleum
industry, with 10% of humanity’s oil supply being used during
the production of plastic each year. The chemicals plastic
emits when it breaks down makes it incredibly harmful to our
planet and ecosystems.
Microplastics are shed from textiles made with plastic 昀椀bers
throughout a garment’s lifecycle—during wear, washing,
and disposal. Consumers have signi昀椀cant power to reduce
microplastic pollution through their choices. By shopping
sustainably and selecting 100% natural 昀椀bers such as wool,
alpaca, cotton, and hemp, the release of microplastics into
the environment can be signi昀椀cantly minimised. These natural
threaded textiles also require less washing and often use
natural dyes - addressing a number of key biodiversity and
climate change challenges facing the textile industry. There
has been a signi昀椀cant shift towards virgin polyester textiles as
manufacturers move to recycled polyester, aiming to reduce
the carbon emissions associated with the manufacturing
process of garments and products. However, it is key to
highlight that recycled polyester also releases microplastics
during a wash cycle, placing more emphasis on educating
consumers on wash care and placing pressure on more
investment and innovation in regard to natural 昀椀bres.
000
n be released
ad of laundry
Conscious choices in wash care and disposal of products can
reduce the ecological footprint of textile products. Education
on this topic - using speci昀椀c laundry accessories and adjusting
washing habits play a crucial role in tackling microplastic
pollution. Wash your garments less frequently, wash on a
lower temperature, avoid the delicate wash setting (which
uses more water than the normal cycle), air dry clothing, and
recycle or dispose of your plastic garments in a responsible
and safe manner.
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