[Editorial] Microfibers- Background, Concern and Solutions

While microplastics have been garnering world-wide attention for their adverse impacts on the marine environment, another invisible threat continues to remain invisible to the global community- microfibers.

What are microfiber?

• Microfibers are microscopic pieces of fabric, usually less than 5 mm. These are released from all types of clothing- natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic.
• These fibres are released during washing. These gets flushed down the drain and eventually reaches the beaches and oceans.
• Several factors influence microfiber shedding from textile laundering:
  • Washing temperature
  • Drum speed
  • Water volume
  • Detergent type
  • Load capacity
  • Washing machine type
  • Textile design
  • Textile quality
  • Use of dryers (can release microfibers directly into the air), etc.
• While microplastics have been garnering significant attention, their semi-synthetic and natural counterparts have emerged as equally worrisome pollutants.  

Why is it an issue?

• The current wastewater treatment systems are unable to efficiently address this concerning pollutant. Hence, they find their way directly into the aquatic environment, especially through sludge applications and landfills.
• Natural and semi-synthetic microfibers are also a source of concern because of their tendency to release dyes and other chemicals.
• Upon entering the ecosystem, these invisible pollutants threaten the growth and reproductive capabilities of a range of organisms.
• These microfibers can enter the food chain and pose a hazard to human health as well. copyright©iasexpress.net
• Considering India’s significant population, the use of washing machines by even a small percentage of the population contributes significantly to microfiber pollution.
• Also, considering the burgeoning textile industry and the fast fashion culture have been pushing an unsustainable consumerist culture. This use-and-throw culture prioritizes quantity over quality, leading to cheaper textile designs, compromised fabric quality and surplus production.
• The unsustainability of the sector is further aggravated by the rapid urbanization, increased purchasing power, growing GDP and brand penetration in the market.

How can it be addressed?

• As we diligently launder our clothes, we fail to realize the pollution resulting from this seemingly mundane task.
• India’s rules, regarding textiles and plastic waste management, are yet to recognize the significance of microfiber pollution. It is high time that appropriate regulatory framework is put in place.
• Addressing this issue requires sustainable solutions such as:
  • Curbing microfiber shedding from textiles
  • Use of front-load washing machine
  • Use of liquid detergents
  • Washing on full load at colder temperatures
  • Use of normal drum speeds
  • Use of tools like guppy friend bags and cora balls
  • Use of natural air drying for laundry
  • Investing in external washing machine filters and subsequent sustainable disposal of the microfibers, etc. copyright©iasexpress.net
• However, these solutions can only reduce the microfiber shedding levels. More comprehensive steps are required.
• Other steps like proper labelling of textile products to raise awareness, introduction of novel CSR strategies, etc. can also help.
• Recycling and thrifting need to be popularized among the Indian populace. This will reduce overexploitation of resources and limit mass production.
• Some countries, like France, have already put in place rules mandating washing machine brands to have inbuilt filters and its associated sustainable disposal mechanisms by 2025.
• Several multinational brands have started recycling trash textiles into different products.
• Going forth, addressing this issue will help India achieve SDG targets including plastic pollution reduction, marine conservation and sustainable consumption.

Conclusion:

Microfibers are one of the many invisible pollutants that are harming the environment alongside the well-known pollutants like microplastics. The Indian rules are yet to recognize and reflect the dangers posed by the fibres. It is high time to adopt a multifaceted approach to addressing this invisible issue.

Practice Question for Mains:

Why are microfibers a cause for concern? How can it be addressed? (250 words)