The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) and ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) have teamed up to release guidance on reducing microfibre pollution in wastewater. They have issued two snapshot guidance documents, one aimed at brands and retailers, the other at suppliers, on actions that can be taken to tackle microfibre loss from wet processing facilities.
TMC and ZDHC say the documents, which they have developed together, are designed to empower supply chains, brands and retailers to take effective measures against all microfibre pollution.
Key features of the action plans include:
• Communication and awareness, such as sharing the guidance
• Reduced formation, such as requests or research to reduce process times
• Reduced emissions in effluent, such as making sure total suspended solids meet ZDHC foundational wastewater requirements
Janne Koopmans, Head of Collaboration at ZDHC, said: “Microfibre pollution has a proven environmental impact on water systems and ecosystems.
“The actions described in the guidance are all quick wins that the textile industry can implement now, there is no need to wait to take action in reducing the environmental impact of microfibres in your supply chain.”
Dr Kelly Sheridan, Research Director of The Microfibre Consortium, added: “Mitigating microfibre pollution will only be possible through concerted collective action, using a portfolio of approaches.
“The actions we have outlined can be adopted by the supply chain today, which will have an immediate impact on protecting our environment and taking responsibility as an industry.”
And Payal Luthra, Global Apparel and Textiles Lead at WWF, commented: “Microfibre emissions are a persistent pollutant, and a global threat to both nature and people.
“But solutions exist. TMC and ZDHC are taking the lead in outlining concrete, no-regrets steps that brands and suppliers can follow today to mitigate fibre fragmentation and emissions during production.
“WWF urges the apparel and textile industry to follow this clear guidance, because we need immediate, coordinated action to tackle this enormous challenge to our planet’s health.”
