We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
From production to pollution: a review of microfiber release mechanisms and mitigation strategies in the textile industry
Summary
This review examines the origins, pathways, and environmental impacts of microfiber pollution from the textile industry. Researchers found that microfibers are released during both textile manufacturing and garment use, and that solutions include biodegradable fiber development, washing machine filtration systems, and advanced wastewater treatment. The study emphasizes that collaboration among industry, governments, research institutions, and consumers is critical to reducing microfiber release.
Microfiber pollution, a subset of microplastics, has arisen as a serious environmental and health issue, driven by the widespread use of textiles and the worldwide extent of microplastic contamination. Microfibers, which come from primary sources such as textile manufacturing and secondary processes such as garment fragmentation, are ubiquitous contaminants with far-reaching environmental and human health consequences. This review examines the origins, pathways and impacts of microfiber pollution, with a focus on the textile industry’s role and potential solutions. Bibliometric analysis reveals a sustained research interest in microfiber-related challenges and solutions, with publications peaking in 2022. Advancements in textile manufacturing methods, the use of biodegradable fibers, the integration of filtration systems in washing machines, advanced wastewater treatment technologies and the implementation of legislative frameworks such as the European Union (EU) Green Deal are all important strategies for addressing microfiber pollution. Collaboration among industry, governments, R&D institutions and consumers is critical to reducing microfiber release and promoting sustainable practices.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Role of Textile Industries in Microfiber Pollution
This review examines the role of textile industries in generating microfiber pollution, tracing microfiber release during fabric production, consumer use, laundering, and end-of-life disposal as synthetic textile demand grows with fast fashion. The review documents pathways by which textile microfibers enter freshwater and marine environments and accumulate in aquatic biota, linking industry growth trends to escalating environmental microfiber loads.
Fibrous Microplastics Release from Textile Production Phases: A Brief Review of Current Challenges and Applied Research Directions
This review examines how microplastic fibers are shed during various stages of textile production, from spinning and weaving to dyeing and finishing. Researchers found that fibrous microplastics account for roughly half to 70% of all microplastics found in global wastewater, primarily originating from synthetic fabric manufacturing and household laundering. The study identifies gaps in current knowledge and explores recycling technologies and regulatory approaches that could help reduce textile microplastic pollution.
A review on microplastic emission from textile materials and its reduction techniques
Researchers reviewed how synthetic textile fibers — tiny plastic threads released from clothes during washing, drying, and wearing — are a major source of microplastic pollution, entering waterways and food chains through seafood, salt, and drinking water. They identify fabric type, detergent, and washing conditions as key factors affecting fiber release, and propose textile finishing and regulatory strategies to reduce emissions.
Emission of fibres from textiles: A critical and systematic review of mechanisms of release during machine washing
This systematic review examines how washing clothes in machines releases microfibers, both natural and plastic, into wastewater. Understanding the factors that drive fiber release during laundry is important because these microfibers are a major source of microplastic pollution in waterways and oceans, and they ultimately enter our food and water supply.
Environmental contamination by microplastics originating from textiles: Emission, transport, fate and toxicity
This review examines how synthetic textiles release fibrous microplastics into the environment through laundering, wear, and disposal. Researchers traced the journey of textile-derived microplastics from washing machines through wastewater treatment plants and into waterways, soils, and the atmosphere. The study highlights that textile fibers are among the most common types of microplastics found in the environment and calls for better mitigation strategies at every stage of the textile lifecycle.