Mandated by the U.S. Congress, the Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee (IMDCC) has delivered a new report on microfiber pollution. Besides a clearer definition of microfibers, the report features an assessment of the sources, prevalence and causes of microfiber pollution and gives recommends a standardized method with which to measure and reduce it.
The study makes clear that the majority (about 60 percent) of fabric produced globally is made with synthetic materials (e.g. polyamid, polyester). The researchers express concern about the prevalence and potential environmental and health risks associated with synthetic microfibers as well as semi-synthetic (e.g. rayon) and chemically modified natural microfibers (e.g. cotton, wool).
The IMDCC researchers call for a more specific investigation into such questions as microfiber emissions during textile production and normal textile use (washing and drying included) and the significance of various textile characteristics (e.g., material type, chemical additives, yarn twist, virgin vs. recycled materials, age/wear, etc.) on shedding rates. The committee also calls for best practices to reduce microfiber shedding in washing machines and dryers.
The IMDCC makes clear that microfiber pollution is a global problem: “Each of these solutions is also dependent on international and cross-sector coordination, cooperation with the private sector, and an informed public making new consumer choices and behavior changes.”
For more information on the new report, visit our partner publication The Outdoor Industry Compass.
