Microplastics Discovered In
Washing Machine Source
Campaigners are calling on the British government to take action on the largest source of microplastic pollution into the environment, washing machines. The open letter calls for all newly produced washing machines to be equipped with a microplastic filter.
60% of clothing is made of synthetic fibers, such as polyester, acrylic, nylon, etc. These fibers are shed during the washing process, and they account for 35% of the microplastics that enter the environment.
Human Health Impact
Microplastics introduced to lung and liver cells are found to interrupt their metabolic processes. Researchers found evidence that the microplastics are reducing ATP production and cellular respiration at current environmental concentrations.
Legislation
The UK currently has a proposed bill requiring microplastic on all newly produced washing machines that are 90% effective at microplastic removal when post-filtered to 10-microns. This is the most stringent requirement currently active.
Academic Papers of Interest
Microplastics introduced to lung and liver cells are found to interrupt their metabolic processes. Researchers found evidence that the microplastics are reducing ATP production and cellular respiration at current environmental concentrations according to this recent study.