We feel you. It can be super tricky to know if you're making environmentally-friendly shopping choices. But it’s time to be clear - choosing natural fibres over synthetics can make a huge and vital difference in protecting our waterways and oceans.
When you’re making a fashion purchase just remember - “sustainable” doesn’t cut it. It’s time to listen to science and be aware of greenwashing.
So what are the facts? We’re glad you asked.
What is microplastic pollution?
Microplastic particles, including microfibres from synthetic clothing and textiles, are now universal in aquatic and land-based ecosystems across the world. It is estimated that 0.6-1.7 million tons of microfibres are released into the ocean every year.
What causes microfiber pollution?
Choosing wool over synthetics fibres such as polyester and acrylic. Why? Because all wool biodegrades in marine environments so does not contribute to the microplastic problem.
Wool does not cause microplastic pollution
Ground-breaking new research has found that Merino wool does not contribute to the issue of microplastics in our oceans. The scientific study - titled Microfibre Pollution and the Marine Biodegradation of Wool - wool readily biodegrades in marine environments, while synthetic fibres do not. The study also found machine washable wool biodegrades at a faster rate than untreated wool fabrics.