What are Microplastics?
Microplastics refer to tiny plastic particles (artificial polymers), typically larger than one nanometre but smaller than 5 millimetres. These particles originate from various sources and are classified into two main categories:
- Primary Microplastics – These are intentionally manufactured in microscopic sizes, such as the microbeads found in cosmetics or textiles.
- Secondary Microplastics – These form when larger plastic items degrade due to mechanical wear or exposure to elements like UV radiation.
Textiles, particularly those made of synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon, are a significant source of secondary microplastics. Additives such as plasticisers, fluorinated compounds used as impregnation for outdoor clothing or flame retardants are also added to the plastic molecules for the desired properties. Wearing clothes releases ten times as many microplastic particles as the washing process. In addition to the wearing of synthetic clothing, laundry wastewater is one of the main sources of microplastics: during regular washing, these fibres shed tiny plastic particles, which are flushed into wastewater systems and eventually into oceans and rivers, contributing to global pollution.
The environmental and health risks
Microplastics have become a persistent environmental pollutant, often found in marine environments and even in food chains. According to a study by the Alfred Wegener Institute, around 8 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the oceans every year. Marine life, from the smallest plankton to larger fish, can ingest microplastics, which may lead to bioaccumulation and disruption of marine ecosystems. Humans are also exposed to microplastics through seafood consumption and drinking water, raising concerns about potential long-term health impacts. A study by the University of Newcastle estimated that a person ingests an average of up to five grams of polymers per week, which is roughly the weight of a credit card. Although research on the health effects is ongoing, there is growing urgency to reduce microplastic emissions.
Microplastics also end up in soils, whether through the use of sewage sludge in agriculture or the decomposition of plastic waste. This impacts soil quality, the health of plants and thus the entire ecosystem and the food chain.
For the textile industry, addressing these risks is not just about protecting the environment but also about responding to increasing consumer demand for sustainability. Brands and manufacturers need to find ways to mitigate their contribution to microplastic pollution, whether through material innovation, improved production processes, or better waste management systems.
The growing challenge in the textile industry
The industry is facing increasing scrutiny due to its environmental impact, with microplastic pollution being a key concern. Synthetic textiles, while prized for their durability and versatility, are among the leading contributors to microplastic emissions. Every time a synthetic garment is washed, thousands of microplastic fibres are released, often bypassing standard water filtration systems and ending up in natural water bodies. This pollution is difficult to clean up and has long-lasting effects on ecosystems.
Moreover, the global nature of textile production makes the issue even more complex. Many textiles are produced in regions with limited environmental regulations or waste management infrastructure, intensifying the problem. As awareness grows, governments, industry bodies, and environmental organisations are calling for stricter regulations and more responsible production practices. The European Commission, for example, has recently introduced measures aimed at curbing microplastic pollution, pushing manufacturers to adopt sustainable alternatives and invest in innovation.
Efforts to reduce microplastic pollution in textiles
To combat microplastic emissions, several strategies are being explored. These include:
- Innovative Materials: Developing textiles that shed fewer fibres or are made from natural materials that biodegrade, such as cotton, hemp, or lyocell.
- Improved Filtration: Implementing more effective filtration systems in washing machines and wastewater treatment facilities to capture microplastic particles before they enter waterways.
- Responsible Production: Encouraging manufacturers to adopt production processes that minimise fibre loss and ensuring that wastewater from factories is treated properly.
Brands, retailers and manufacturers that take proactive steps to reduce their microplastic footprint will not only meet tightening regulations but also gain a competitive edge by catering to the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers. Practices.
Looking ahead: The role of testing and certification
As the textile industry faces increasing pressure to address the challenges posed by microplastic pollution, testing and certification are becoming increasingly important. Independent testing organisations, like TESTEX, are leading the way by offering rigorous testing procedures that help manufacturers assess and reduce microplastic emissions from their products.
To further address this issue, TESTEX has developed the TESTEX MICROPLASTIC label, which certifies that textiles have undergone thorough testing for microplastic emissions. This label will allow brands to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and reassure consumers that they are making environmentally responsible choices.
Stay tuned to learn more about how the TESTEX MICROPLASTIC label is helping manufacturers reduce their environmental impact while meeting the highest standards for microplastic emissions control.