Breaking News: Innovative Research in North East Aims to Combat the Environmental Threat of Microfibres

A new research center has opened in the North East to examine how much microfibre is lost from textiles and its effects on the environment.

The Fibre-fragmentation and Environment Research Hub, also known as the FibER Hub, is situated at Northumbria University in Newcastle. This initiative is a partnership between the university and The Microfibre Consortium (TMC).

People often don’t realize that when we wash and dry our clothes, tiny microfibres break off. These little bits can harm wildlife and pollute our air, soil, and water.

The FibER Hub plans to test various fabrics to see how much microfibre is lost under different washing and drying conditions. This research is crucial as it will help us understand the environmental impact of these fibres.

Studies have shown that clothing sheds microfibres throughout its life—from production to everyday wear. Even natural fabrics like cotton can cause environmental issues. During manufacturing, these fabrics are treated with chemicals, dyes, and finishes, moving them away from their natural state.

Dr. Alana James, who leads the project, noted that this partnership addresses a major gap in understanding microfibres as an environmental pollutant. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between design and environmental science, which can help us tackle fibre shedding from its source.

In the past, research efforts have mainly focused on how microfibres are lost during washing at home. The FibER Hub’s work will expand that knowledge by looking into other situations where textiles might shed fibres.

Dr. Kelly Sheridan from TMC highlights that this collaboration combines Northumbria’s expertise to enhance our understanding of microfibres, benefiting their community members.

Ultimately, the goal is to use this research to create more sustainable textiles and develop strategies to reduce fibre shedding throughout their lifecycle.