France’s new law is a decisive step in the fight against microfiber pollution. Now, it has become the first country in the world to legislate that all new washing machines sold there should be fitted with microfiber filtration systems. The implementation of these filters has faced delays, raising concerns about the ongoing environmental impact of synthetic fibers in laundry.
Microfiber pollution has become one of our most urgent environmental crises. Nonprofits such as the Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean are working to address its effect. Launched by Rachael Z. Miller, the project is working to tackle the issue of microfibers that are released into our waterways. One of its most creative solutions is the Cora Ball, a laundry ball that you toss into your washing machine. This unique product significantly reduces clothes from rubbing against each other in the wash, in turn cutting down the microfiber that is released by about 40%.
Patagonia, the iconic outdoor clothing retailer, has likewise led the charge on trying to reduce synthetic fiber waste. The company has spent the past ten years of its history betting on its own research. This new effort is intended to further their understanding of how their clothing impacts air and water quality. Their commitment is a powerful reminder of the role corporate responsibility can play in making communities more environmentally just.
The UK-based Microfibre Consortium was founded in 2018. It’s uniting more than 90 brands, retailers and manufacturers to collectively research and develop solutions that minimize microfiber pollution. To tackle this issue, the consortium has tested close to 1,500 different fabrics to pinpoint solutions with the potential to minimize fiber breakup during production and usage.
Despite these positive developments, U.S. legislative efforts have faced challenges on substantive and procedural grounds. In 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have required microfiber filters on new washing machines sold in the state. This veto was primarily in response to worries about what the cost-shifting involved would mean for consumers. Rather than requiring filters, the governor took the more fiscally responsible route of promoting technology focused on extracting microfibers from wastewater.
Meanwhile, in Oregon, State Senator Deb Patterson has proposed a bill requiring microfiber filters on new washers sold in her state. Having been exposed to this technology in Canada, Sen. This is a testament to the increasing awareness, concern, and desire to address microfiber pollution among the states.
“Everyone who wears and launders clothing is part of this problem but everyone who wears and launders clothing can be part of the solutions,” – Rachael Z. Miller, founder of Vermont-based Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean.
Given the scale of the microfiber pollution problem, there is no single solution. Innovation across multiple sectors is a necessity. As Matt Dwyer, vice president of global product footprint, put it, “The only way we’re going to address this issue—holistically and at scale—is together.”
“There’s a whole lot of smart people, not just understanding the problem and the scope of the problem, but also looking for solutions all the way through the manufacturing cycle and use phase,” – Matt Dwyer.
Anja Brandon, director of plastics policy at Ocean Conservancy, explained the ways our laundry processes play a role in these microfiber emissions.
“They get tumbled and tossed around with a bunch of soaps, really designed to shake things up to get out dirt and stains,” – Anja Brandon.
With the dangers of microfiber pollution becoming so apparent, the need for solutions has never been more pressing. As consumers remain largely unaware of their role in this environmental crisis, educational initiatives and technological advancements will be crucial in promoting sustainable practices.
