They're one of the smallest things in the world but also one of the scariest, no I am not talking about the Blue Ring Octopus but microfibres. Microfibres are created every time we wash synthetic fibres (acrylic, nylon, and polyester). They are too small to be filtered or even for the eye to see but end up in our waterways and oceans, where they wreak havoc on marine animals and the environment.
These nasty fibers are now showing up everywhere and now in fish and shellfish that is sold for human consumption. With one study revealing that microfibers are responsible for 85% of all shoreline pollution across the world.
To break it right down (get it), everytime you put a load on your pumping tiny weeny bits of plastic straight into the ocean which our fish consume then we eat them. Horrifying. Here's how you can help reduce these bad guys, one step at a time.
1. Wash your clothes at low temps (i.e 30 degrees and below). Microfibres breakdown easier in higher temps.
2. Use one of these scientifically-designed washbags that help capture the microfibres before they enter our waterways.
3. Fill your machine right up, avoid half loads. This creates less friction on your clothes and less MF.
4. Reduce your wash speed. Again, less friction.
5. Air dry everything. Then they've got nowhere to go.
6. Wash your clothes less often. We don't want you smelling like a wet dog but think twice before washing those jeans you wore for an hour.
7. Buy clothes made from natural fibres so there aren't any left.
8. Spread the word. Talk about them with your friends and family, if you can help educate them on these simple changes we will have a bigger impact.