Fighting Microplastics Pollutions
Microplastics contamination is a growing concern globally. Aquafil believes that the first step to solve the problem is to have a standardized method for measuring the microplastics footprint of a product or manufacturing process.
For this reason, we have partnered with STIIMA CNR (the National Research Council of Italy) to research and develop a process that analyzes microplastics’ physical and chemical features (such as dimension, shape, quantity and composition). By studying their composition, we can find ways to prevent them from reacting with the wider environment and forming even more toxic substances, thus minimizing their negative impact.
As a next step, we aim for this method to obtain UNI/ISO – CEN approval and become an international standard. At the same time, we are also closely collaborating with other industry partners – like Materevolve, a California-based sustainable textiles consultancy, or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program – to connect, share knowledge, and discuss solutions for microfiber pollution.
In 2020, Materevolve curated the “California Microfiber Workshop: Science, Innovation & Connection”, which brought together 85 Californian leaders in marine science, policy, and sustainable textile innovation.
