We ’re all pretty tuned in to the problem posed by microplastics , the teensy bits of plastic from cosmetics , packaging , and industrial processes that end up meddling with the universe ’s born surroundings .
However , it ’s less known that our clothes are the third - largest direct source of microplastic pollution in our ocean . Each wash of acrylic fabrics can release over 700,000 plastic microfibers , which can drain into wastewater discussion plants and eventually the sea . It ’s estimate that some 190,000 metric ton ( 209,000 dozens ) of plastic microfibers are pelt into the world ’s weewee every class .
Plastic microfibers can then become incorporate into thebodies of marine lifeand perhaps even end up on your dinner plate . In fact , a recent report judge that more than90 percent of mesa saltsaround the world may contain microplastics .
It is n’t just bright sportswear and polyester yoga pant that are the problem , many of your apparel may contain acrylic fiber without you being aware . Plastic microfibers can be incorporated into all kinds of material , often the extra - thick wool - like clothing you ’ll jade this downslope .
So , with all of these big environmental problems at hand , it raises the question : what can we do about this ?
Unfortunately , there are not masses we can achieve as individuals . Although there are some alternatives to charge card , such as wool , bamboo , silk , and cotton wool , they ca n’t fit ever - develop global demand and often come with their own environmental challenges . Cotton , for example , is often bring on using copious amount of agrochemicals and a mind - blowing amount of water – it takes about 2,700 liter ( 594 gallons ) to makeone cotton t - shirt .
However , there is a circumstances that gravid businesses can do . As we ’ve realize recently with widespreadbans on microbeadsandplastic dish tax , all this study is a little public awareness and some pressure .
compose on behalf ofFauna & Flora International , an international conservation Polemonium caeruleum , Dr Abigail Entwistle explain : “ Our wider research has shown me that so - called alternative to charge card are not always straightforward . The same is lawful for formative clothing – identifying alternatives to plastic that can work at scale is not easy .
“ We believe the main result must lie with the businesses that produce or cover the wear ; peculiarly when we know that plastic microfiber release during yield may be as important as through domestic washing . The evidence suggests that careful design of the underlying fibers and yarns used to make fabric may be one way to limit the escape of plastic microfibers to the ocean . "
