4 April 2024
Zero Waste Laundry: this is how you improve your washing routine
- Lifestyle
On World Oceans Day, it is a time to reflect on the fashion industry’s responsibility to protect our precious oceans. Unfortunately, the current system is harming not only the oceans, but also the ecosystems they are home to.
In this blog, we will explain the impact of fashion on our oceans and what actions we can take to address this problem:
1. Microplastics in the wash:
The amount of clothing made from synthetic fibres continues to grow at an alarming rate, and it is predicted that almost 75% of clothing will be made from synthetic fibres by 2023 (Changing Markets Foundation, Synthetics Anonymous, 2021).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 laundry bags designed to trap microplastic particles.
- 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 sustainable fashion: Support ethical and ocean-conscious brands. Here are some examples:
Ocean Born Lifestyle
Ocean Born Lifestyle is a brand that seeks to tell stories of impact through its products. Its NO DYE garment collection was born as a response to the alarming problem of dyeing and finishing processes, which rely on toxic chemicals that can affect our health.
The brand is part of the Ocean Born Foundation, which aims to accelerate the restoration and protection of the oceans by launching environmentally friendly brands. 100% of the profits generated are invested in the restoration and protection of the ocean.
Fitplanet
FITPLANET is a movement where environmental education, protection of marine biodiversity, circular economy and transparency are the basis of its sustainability.
They carry out environmental education activities and plastic collections. In addition, each FITPLANET set protects a marine species. They donate 10% of the profits from each purchase to different marine NGOs to protect marine biodiversity.
TWOTHIRDS
TWOTHIRDS is a clothing brand, founded out of a deep love for the ocean, that has grown into a community of like-minded people. At TWOTHIRDS they want to create clothing with zero impact on the planet and its oceans.
They use eco-friendly, biodegradable and environmentally reclaimed materials, especially from the ocean, such as recycled fishing nets and other waste materials from the environment.
Bonito
At bonito they create organic cotton garments, made in Barcelona for lovers of the sea.
The search for the waves and the wind has always been a constant in the lives of the founders of BONITO. An illusion that has motivated them, guided them and given them unforgettable moments that they would like other people to be lucky enough to enjoy. That is why they created SOCIALITO, a social project that aims to give young people in complex family situations and with few economic resources the opportunity to enjoy the sea. 5% of BONITO’s income goes to pay for courses to make this wish come true.
OLTRAMAR
The sea is a sacred place to which Oltramar takes you in an intimate and timeless way. Natural indigo dyeing is what makes Oltamar a special and different brand.
Natural dyes such as indigo are biodegradable and cause no lasting damage to the marine environment. Unlike synthetic dyes that can persist in water for a long time.
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!
