Ocean Diagnostics and Raincoast Conservation Foundation have released a report on the state of microfiber pollution in Canada that recommends a new national strategy.
“Microfibers dominate microplastic profiles in Canada; these reports provide blueprints for effective action on microfiber pollution. Success will require collaboration at all levels—government, industry, and consumers. Recent scientific advances provide the tools needed to effectively tackle the microfiber pollution challenge,” says Dr. Anna Posacka, Strategic Advisor, Ocean Diagnostics.
The report estimates that Canadians create approximately 1,920 tonnes of microfibers every year by laundering textiles, with much being distributed in the environment through the application of biosolids to farmlands and forests or through wastewater effluent. By 2030, our laundry alone is expected to have introduced 6,558 tonnes of microfibers to Canadian soil and water environments- the equivalent of 44 million t-shirts. With the final Global Plastics Treaty negotiations taking place at INC-5 in Busan, Republic of Korea, from November 25 to December 5, 2024, these reports provide Canada and other nations with actionable strategies to stop plastic pollution at the source and along its way to the environment.
“Addressing plastic pollution in all sectors of our economy is key to protecting our environment and creating a cleaner, healthier future for all. While everyone has a role to play in tackling plastic pollution, conducting and publishing sound science is important for informing future actions. This work by Ocean Diagnostics and Raincoast Conservation Foundation can help contribute to identifying solutions to better manage synthetic textiles and clothing to reduce plastic waste and microfiber pollution,” says the Honorable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
Microfibers from clothing and other textiles—whether synthetic (e.g., polyester, nylon) or natural (e.g., wool, cotton)—pose risks to human health and the environment. Their small size allows them to escape into the environment through manufacturing, household and commercial laundry, and wastewater treatment plants. Microfibers enter the air, waterways, and biosolids, the latter of which are distributed across farmlands and forests. Microfibers have been detected in water, snow, sediments, animals, and people, with concerns increasing about significant health impacts. Despite their widespread distribution and the potential for harm, microfiber pollution is largely unregulated in Canada or internationally.
“We find microfibers everywhere we look, illustrating just how pervasive these tiny particles are and how we at home are connected to microfiber pollution in the world’s oceans. Whether it’s the textile sector choosing, designing, and manufacturing more sustainable textiles, or consumers adopting microfiber-busting innovation at home, we all have a role to play in reducing microfiber pollution,” urges Dr. Peter S. Ross, Senior Scientist, Raincoast Conservation Foundation.
This comprehensive report, alongside a summary report, was made possible through the financial support of Environment and Climate Change Canada. It is now freely available for governments, industry, and consumers and provides a list of recommended actions to reduce microfiber releases into the environment and protect the health of Canadians and the environment.
