microplastic (noun): a tiny particle of plastic, especially one five millimeters or smaller in diameter

Washing machines are the largest source of microplastics into the environment, accounting for 35% of total emissions. Billions of microfibers are emitted into the environment from washing machines every year.

Microplastic Sources:

  • Clothing - 35%

    With every load of laundry, up to 1.5 million plastic microfibers are emitted into our waterways. The fibers are torn from the clothing as they are spun quickly in the washer, similar to how lint is produced from drying clothes. Textile abrasion is a primary source of microplastics, and it contributes to 35% of the problem.

  • Tires - 28%

    As you drive your car, the plastic tire slowly degrades from the friction with the road. This can be visually seen as the treads on tires are reduced in size. Tire abrasion is a primary source of microplastics, and it makes up 28% of the problem.

  • Waste - 37%

    When plastic bottles and bags reach the ocean, they are broken down into smaller pieces from sunlight and the force of the waves. These are secondary sources of microplastics, combining to make up 37% of the total problem.

Legislative Requirements for Microplastic Filters

  • France is requiring microplastic filters on every newly produced washing machine starting on January 1, 2025.

  • The United Kingdom has pending legislation to require manufacturers to fit microplastic catching filters to new domestic and commercial washing machines no later than January 1st 2025

  • California:

    Requires on or after January 1, 2029 all new washing machines sold in California for residential, commercial, or state use in California to contain a microfiber filtration system

    Oregon:

    Prohibits sale of new washing unless equipped with built-in or in-line microfiber filtration system by January 1, 2026

    New Jersey:

    State-wide rebate program to fund up to $100 per purchase of a microfiber filter

  • Australia to phase in of microfibre filters on new residential and commercial washing machines by July 1, 2030

  • Ontario has a bill that would require microplastic filters on all newly sold washing machines