Microplastics for smart people: a Q&A
There is a lot of talk about microplastics in the sea. But what actually are microplastics, where do they come from, and what can you do to reduce them?
At Pierre Robert we work actively to understand and reduce the impact of textiles. Here is a simple explanation, and some concrete tips.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, and down to micrometer size. These particles end up in nature through plastic waste, cosmetics and waste water, among other routes.
In the sea, plastic breaks down into ever smaller pieces, eventually becoming microplastics that spread through the ecosystem.
Microplastics in the sea are a growing environmental problem. Small organisms can eat the plastic particles, which they are unable to digest. This can harm wildlife and disrupt the food chain.
When smaller organisms are eaten by larger animals, microplastics can accumulate, and in some cases end up in the food we eat. Microplastics can also bind environmental toxins to themselves, which can amplify the negative effects.
Where do microplastics come from?
plastic waste breaking down in nature
cosmetics and hygiene products
waste water from households
synthetic clothing
Synthetic clothes are made from plastic-based fibers. When such garments are washed, small microfibers can come loose and end up in the waste water, and from there out into the sea.
Pierre Robert has taken part in research projects looking at how microplastics are created by washing clothes. Studies show, among other things:
Garments with a looser structure (such as fleece) can shed more microfibers
Clothes shed the most microplastics during the first few washes
More tightly knitted materials shed less
There are several simple steps you can take:
Choose clothes in natural materials such as wool, cotton, linen or TENCEL™
Wash clothes less often and at lower temperatures
Use a wash bag that captures microfibers
Choose high-quality garments that last longer
At Pierre Robert we work continuously to improve our material choices and reduce environmental impact.
Although synthetic materials are often necessary for functional garments such as sportswear, we are working to find better solutions and to give you, as a customer, the knowledge to make good choices.
