In the latest article researchers have highlighted some environmental aspects of microfiber pollution and suggested some critical points to keep it at a minimum. Earlier, only synthetic fibers were considered an ecological burden, yet the natural fibers also contribute to microfibers pollution. The application of different finishes and coating could decrease the biodegradation of these natural fibers contributing to pollution.
Experiments indicated that a single 6 kg domestic wash could release as many as 700,000 fibers. According to the figures cited in a Spin report provided by the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI), over nine trillion fibers could be released per week in the UK. Synthetic microfibers and nanofibers have been estimated to comprise up to 35% of primary microplastics in the marine environment, which are found in aquatic habitats worldwide, including shorelines.
A considerable accumulation of microfibers in the environment will become more severe because of textile production growth and the absence of microfiber degradation and effective recycling technologies. Researchers have highlighted some actionable approaches to control microfiber pollution, including:
– Control microfiber pollution at the source
– A shift in consumer behavior
– Retailer recycling programs
– Government behaviors
Researchers conclude that systemic solutions using strategic and tactical interventions are required to stop microfiber pollution at its source, and bold actions from a broad range of stakeholders are needed across the full fibrous material lifecycle to implement these interventions.
