The Microfibre Consortium and ZDHC Foundation Unite to Combat Microfibre Release

The Microfibre Consortium and ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme have joined forces to release a snapshot guidance that sets out to help tackle microfibre loss in the textile industry. This guidance is aimed at empowering the value chain to take effective measures against microfibre pollution. 
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Microfibres, tiny particles which are lost during the textile lifecycle, have been identified as an environmental threat. The Microfibre Consortium and ZDHC have co-developed guidance aimed at empowering supply chains, brands, and retailers to take effective measures against microfibre pollution.
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Key features of the action plan outlined in the document include:

• Communication and build awareness, such as sharing the guidance
• Reduced formation, such as request/research to reduce process times
• Reduced emissions in effluent, such as making sure TSS is reviewed and meets ZDHC foundational requirements
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"Microfibre pollution has a proven environmental impact on water systems and ecosystems. The actions described in the guidance are all quick wins that the textile industry can implement now, there is no need to wait to take action in reducing the environmental impact of microfibres in your supply chain" says Janne Koopmans, Head of Collaboration with ZDHC.

Dr Kelly Sheridan, Research Director of The Microfibre Consortium, adds, "Mitigating microfibre pollution will only be possible through concerted collective action, using a portfolio of approaches. The actions we have outlined can be adopted by the supply chain today, which will have an immediate impact on protecting our environment and taking responsibility as an industry.”

The full guidance can be found on The Microfibre Consortium website and on ZDHC’s website.

After the public release of the guidance (planned for 3rd October 3 2023) please share the documents with your supply chain and teams to prepare for the new ZDHC Wastewater Guidelines update that is scheduled for release in 2024.

Fibre Fragmentation in Wastewater - Suppliers‍
Fibre Fragmentation in Wastewater - Brands & Retailers