The impact of clothing on plastic pollution in the oceans

The majority of the clothing that is currently produced is made out of polyester or other synthetic fibers. But, how does this impact our environment?

1. Microplastics in the wash

The amount of clothing made from synthetic fibres amounts to over two thirds (69%) of all materials at present, and continues to grow at an alarming rate. It is predicted to grow by nearly three quarters by 2030, 85% of which will be polyester (Stand.earth, 2023).

Synthetic fibres, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are popular due to their affordability and durability. However, these benefits come at a significant environmental cost. Most of the microplastic pollution caused by synthetic clothing, such as polyester or nylon, occurs in the use phase, mainly during washing. Each wash releases fibres from the fabric. This happens with clothing made of any fabric, but it is not always so harmful.

2. Impact on marine life

As polyester and other synthetic fabrics such as acrylic are roughly made of plastic fibres, these pieces end up in the environment in the form of microplastics. These pieces are so small (0.05 – 5mm) that they are difficult to filter out. According to a 2017 study by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), 35% of microplastic pollution in the oceans comes from synthetic textiles. This is a staggering amount, considering the overall contribution of microplastics from other sources, including tyre wear and city dust.

These tiny plastic particles pose a serious threat to marine life. Marine organisms, from the smallest to the largest, such as fish, sea turtles and seabirds, ingest these microplastics, often mistaken for food. This can cause blockages in the digestive system, interfere with nutrient absorption and transfer toxins through the food chain, affecting the health and reproduction of marine species. Microplastics have even recently been detected in the placentas of unborn animals (Carrington, 2024).

3. Health impact

According to the Marine Pollution Bulletin, a 6 kg wash of 100% polyester clothing releases 496,030 10µm of microplastics. This is comparable to a full drum of laundry containing 20 to 30 football team shirts or shorts in total. In the case of polyester/cotton blends, this equates to 137,951 10µm microplastics per 6 kg of wash. The UNEP backs up this claim by saying laundry itself releases around 500,000 tonnes of plastic microfibres every year into the ocean, which is equal to about 3 billion shirts made of polyester (UNEP, 2023).

Through the washing machine, they end up in nearby water streams, such as rivers and oceans, and thus in our drinking water and food chain. Scientists at the VU Amsterdam have even found microplastic particles in human blood. The implications for human health are still being studied, but early indications suggest potential risks, including inflammation and other immune responses.

4. Impact on birth weight

Researchers recently established a direct link between in-utero exposure to microplastics – tiny plastic particles that pollute our oceans and air — and lower birth weights. Key findings highlight alarming trends:

Microplastics in pregnancy: Exposure during the second and third trimesters is linked to an increased risk of low birth weights (under 2,500 grams).
Global health impact: A doubling of microplastic exposure correlates with an estimated 205,000 additional low birth weight cases worldwide each year.
Regional disparities: While developed nations like the US report lower rates (around 1.2%), developing regions in Africa and South Asia see rates surpassing 8%.
Airborne pollution: The study identifies aerosolization — where microplastics become airborne — as a key exposure route, particularly in coastal areas with high pollution levels.
Long-term concerns: These findings add to growing worries about the health risks of microplastics, both for infants and the wider population.

This research is a wake-up call to explore sustainable alternatives that can help protect our oceans and us. One such innovation is seaweed textiles. Seaweed is not only abundant in our oceans but also offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive choice for textile production.

By embracing natural alternatives like seaweed textiles, we can reduce our dependence on synthetic fibres, helping to cut plastic pollution at its source and safeguard both human health and marine ecosystems.

What can we do to avoid microplastics in the oceans?

Eliminate plastics from your wardrobe. When buying clothes, try to choose clothes made from natural materials, such as cotton, linen or silk. These materials do not release microplastics during washing.
Use gentle washing programmes, avoid over-washing. You can also use special devices designed to trap microplastic particles, such as the Cora Ball and the Guppyfriend washing bag.
Microplastics can also be found in our personal care products. Check the ingredients of your personal care products, such as scrubs and skin care products, and avoid those that contain microplastics. Find out how to recognise microplastics in cosmetics.
Encourage more sustainable fashion: Support ethical and ocean-conscious brands. This includes not just buying sustainably, but also advocating for more stringent regulations on microfibre pollution and supporting research into alternative materials and better filtration technologies.

Clothing is a significant source of plastic pollution in the oceans. But, every small change counts and can make a difference in the fight against microplastic pollution in the oceans – together we can take action to reduce our contribution and protect our marine ecosystems!

Are you curious to know more? Keep on reading about seaweed textile innovations.