Microfiber Partnership
Join the Partnership
Informing science-based solutions to microfibers through research on their sources, transfer to and fate in the ocean.
Studies on textile design and production, consumer practices, and filtration devices as solutions for reducing microfiber emission.
Studies to determine microplastic removal efficiency, discharge and variation over time in support of engineering solutions and waste management best practices.
Research to develop Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) based tools to identify and track the fate of microplastics in the environment.
We are thrilled to see the results of this long-term research released, and are excited to put these recommendations into action in our design process, textiles development and manufacturing. It’s our hope that this research offers practical, science-backed measures for our industry as a whole to adopt
Katie Wilson
Arc’teryx
Are you a business looking to make a difference?
Join the Ocean Wise Microfiber Partnership with others like MEC, Patagonia, REI, Arc’teryx, Aritzia, and Joe Fresh and help us innovate solutions that address microfibers in our ocean.
Apply Today!
Where do microfibers originate?
Synthetic fibers are common constituents of textiles and are released from clothing during domestic laundry. While this varies greatly depending on many factors, such as the type of garment and laundry conditions, research has shown that some materials can lose billions of fibers in a single wash. Wastewater treatment facilities, where available, can capture much of these fibers and other microplastics (> 90%) into sludge. Nonetheless, microfiber emissions with treated wastewater on annual and geographical scales are substantial because of the large volumes of polluted water treated.
