Thinking systemically and adopting a “solutions portfolio” approach is key to significantly mitigating the issue of fibre fragmentation and towards this Fashion for Good and the Microfibre Consortium have joined hands with some industry stakeholders to investigate the key drivers leading to this large-scale pollution by the textile industry.
- A landmark study launched by the innovation platform and the nonprofit—Behind the Break: Exploring Fibre Fragmentation—investigated and identified the key drivers of fibre fragmentation with the aim to challenge root causes and assumptions, address data gaps, and validate test methods.
- Tackling the issue at the source, this project will advance the industry knowledge needed to mitigate fibre fragment pollution.
- The project brings together major fashion brands and manufacturers including Adidas, Bestseller, C&A, Inditex, Kering, Levi Strauss, Norrona, ON, Paradise Textiles, and Positive Materials, with Under Armour joining as a project partner.
- Testing will be conducted across three laboratories—Paradise Textiles, Under Armour, and IMPACT+ Network from Northumbria University—to analyse fibre fragmentation on three different fabric types: cotton knit, cotton woven, and polyester knit fabrics.
This initiative aims to identify the most effective approaches to tackling fibre fragmentation at the source through the following insights:
- Enhancing Test Methods: Validate and refine testing techniques to ensure accuracy, reliability, and alignment with industry standards.
- Strengthening Data Correlation: Compare results across methods to identify variations, uncover discrepancies, and establish clearer data connections.
- Driving Improvements: Address limitations in current methods, expand databases, and support better design and supply chain practices.
- Supporting Stakeholders: Equip partners and industry players with practical strategies to reduce fragmentation through improved design and manufacturing.
- Informing Policy: Provide valuable insights into contamination and fibre structures to shape effective regulations and policies.
THE CONTEXT: Fibre fragmentation is a significant topic of concern across the industry, with studies highlighting the potential threat to ecosystems and human health. This underscores the urgent need for the development of effective strategies aimed at mitigating the negative impact of fibre fragments.
- In recent years, several domestic and industrial mitigation efforts have been developed to capture fibre fragments before they enter air, water, and soil. However, the focus lies in reducing fibre fragments from entering the environment downstream, rather than tackling the problem at the source.
- It is pivotal for the industry to better understand the root causes and mechanisms of fibre fragmentation.
WHAT THEY SAID
Fibre pollution is a challenge that the industry faces as a whole, so we are partnering with The Microfibre Consortium to contribute to the foundation of data that will help us better understand the root causes of fibre fragmentation. The focus on different testing methods will allow us to reduce uncertainty, take a common direction and set priorities for future research and initiatives within the industry.
— Katrin Ley
Managing Director
Fashion for Good
Partnering with Fashion For Good has helped to unite the project partners behind the ongoing need for alignment on closing fibre fragmentation knowledge gaps. With this rallied support, we can build on the existing state of knowledge and make great strides in addressing urgent topic challenges for a future of informed, science-led and integrated mitigation action.
— Kelly Sheridan
Chief Executive Officer
The Microfibre Consortium
By conducting this study, we are taking a proactive approach to addressing microfibre release. Our goal is to leverage data-driven insights to improve our processes, product design, and sourcing practices, thereby contributing to a less polluting industry. Collaboration across stakeholders is crucial to accelerating our progress toward a more sustainable future.
— Lucie Anne Martinol
Lead, Textile Innovation
ON
Our objective is to identify processes and strategies that mitigate fibre pollution through informed textile design and manufacturing processes. We're excited about continuing this critical work and pioneering innovative technologies that can reshape the industry for the better.
— Lewis Shuler
Head of Innovation, Alpine Group
Paradise Textiles
Positive Materials believes that reducing fibre fragmentation requires innovation at every stage. Our partnership with Fashion for Good and The Microfibre Consortium on Behind the Break is critical because we're not just aiming to reduce shedding; we're making sure our materials maintain the high standards our customers depend on. It’s about finding that balance where environmental responsibility drives innovation, not compromises it.
— Elsa Parente
Co-CEO & CTO
Positive Materials
