More than 50,000 tonnes of microfibres leak into the environment, Earth Action says

New research from environmental organisation Earth Action has revealed that more than 58,000 tonnes of microfibres generated during textile manufacturing leak into the environment each year, highlighting the need for greater collaboration across the apparel supply chain.

The report, From Shedding to Solutions, provides what Earth Action describes as the first global system-level assessment of microfibre losses during textile production. It estimates that 92,000 tonnes of microfibres are generated annually during manufacturing, with around 63% ultimately escaping into the environment despite existing wastewater treatment systems.

According to the research, as much as 95% of production-stage microfibre leakage could be eliminated by 2032 through a combination of cleaner manufacturing processes, improved wastewater treatment and better sludge management.

The report also highlights the role of product design in reducing fibre shedding, citing studies that show changes to yarn construction, fabric density and finishing treatments can cut polyester microfibre shedding by between 60% and 90%.

Industry leaders, including Under Armour and Patagonia, have backed the findings, calling for greater collaboration across brands, manufacturers and suppliers to tackle the issue.

Earth Action says brands and regulators already have sufficient evidence to begin implementing practical solutions to reduce microfibre pollution throughout textile production.