Borås Textile Days
On November 13, the MicroPlastGuard project held an event that was an informative and interactive seminar and workshop at Borås Textile Days - to help increase the knowledge level of industry and other stakeholders regarding the issue of microplastic releases from textiles. Specifically, it was important to bring forward more information about how synthetic textiles, like polyester and acrylic, are among the largest sources of microplastic pollution. These microplastic fiber fragments are going into our oceans and lakes, with significant impacts on the environment-including the health of natural ecosystems and the health of our own bodies.
Within the scope of this event, a lecture was given by guest Professor Amit Rawal, holder of the King Carl XVI Gustaf Professorship in Environmental Science, as this was the topic of his research during his time working at the University of Borås.
In addition to presenting some research at the forefront of this topic area, the event was focused on engaging the diverse stakeholders to understand better how the textile industry currently identifies and manages these microplastic fiber releases and how can we work towards reducing emissions. While the project’s findings show a gap in the industry to handle these issues, the interest to further address these emissions was high.
During the discussions it was clear that there is some growing knowledge around these challenges, as a few industry stakeholders had a significant motivation to work with improving their impacts, but also everyone learned something new or unexpected. Additionally, the event was an opportunity to debut an infographic sponsored by the W4TEX project-made by an intern, Chamaikarn Pai Chartsiri, which provides an overview of the issue of microplastic pollution from textiles and highlights some possible improvement strategies.
As a wrap up activity, the diverse group of participants provided input as to what we all should do next. The most important message was that we need more education on this topic. Fortunately, this is one of the main aims of the ongoing work in the MicroPlastGuard project. For some key takeaways from all the project partners, see the short videos below.