Researchers found that an average 6 kg load of laundry releases more than 700,000 microscopic plastic fibers into wastewater. These plastic fibers come from synthetic (= plastic) textiles like polyester. Synthetic textiles have become a staple in our wardrobes: today, over 60% of textiles are synthetic. This, too, has opened the door for microplastic to pollute every corner of the Earth.

Every year, over a million tons of microplastics end up in oceans. Our washing machines are a major source of this plastic pollution. Researchers found that an average 6 kg load of laundry releases more than 700,000 microscopic plastic fibers into wastewater. These plastic fibers come from synthetic (= plastic) textiles like polyester. Synthetic textiles have become a staple in our wardrobes: today, over 60% of textiles are synthetic. This, too, has opened the door for microplastic to pollute every corner of the Earth.

Microplastics have now been found everywhere: at the bottom of the Mariana Trench, on remote alpine peaks, and in our food and drinking water. Due to their small sizes they are highly mobile and easily ingested by many organisms. They also have the ability to bind chemical pollutants. Studies show they cause poisoning, infertility, and genetic disruption. It is known that microplastics can enter human body through the nose or mouth and small enough particles can end up in our lung tissues.