Research

Approximately 0.5-4.3 million metric tonnes of synthetic and natural microfibres could enter the environment every year and the total amount of microfibres in the oceans is currently thought to exceed 1.5 trillion tonnes. Microfibres have been found in the deep ocean, on beaches, in rivers, and in the atmosphere. They have also been found in animals, plants and in our food. 

Microfibre presence in the environment is a concern for environmental health in part because they can be consumed by organisms. Not only does this cause gut blockages, but the chemicals in textiles, which are often added to enhance the properties of both synthetic and natural textiles, can be absorbed by the animals consuming them.

The global release of microplastics into the ocean is estimated to be between 0.8 and 2.5 million tonnes per year, which would fill roughly 66,000-200,000 average-sized refuse collection trucks. Microplastics pose a potential hazard to human health largely through dietary exposure.

While there is growing understanding of the causes of microplastic pollution, this topic has not received the same level of attention from policymakers, companies, or investors as have comparable issues such as marine macroplastic pollution and waste management.