Fibre fragmentation is a significant topic of concern across the industry as a potential threat to ecosystems and human health. Any processed fibrous material broken from a textile structure during production, use, end-of-use, as well as through its subsequent breakage in the natural environment is included in this scope. In recent years, several domestic and industrial mitigation efforts have been developed to capture fibre fragments before they enter air, water, and soil; but with a focus on reducing fibre fragments from entering the environment downstream. Now, a global sustainable fashion innovation platform, Fashion for Good and The Microfibre Consortium have launched ‘Behind the Break: Exploring Fibre Fragmentation’, aiming to challenge root causes and assumptions, address data gaps, and validate test methods.
The project brings together major fashion brands and manufacturers including adidas, Bestseller, C&A, Inditex, Kering, Levi Strauss & Co., 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 in cotton knit, cotton woven, and polyester knit fabrics.
Data required to understand root causes of fibre fragmentation
A new report, which aims to offer a snapshot of the issue of fibre fragmentation through the lens of the textile and fashion industry, unpacking various aspects of this complex issue (definition, sources and pathways, root causes, analytical test methods, solution portfolio, biodegradation, toxicity and regulation).
‘Behind the Break: Exploring Fibre Fragmentation’ project, investigating the root causes of fibre fragmentation within manufacturing processes (such as different dye methods) and how these influence fibre fragmentation. It will focus on three different fabric types – cotton knit, cotton woven and polyester knit. The project includes various testing methods, leveraging the expertise of project partners Under Armour, Impact+ and Paradise Textiles.
“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 at Fashion for Good said.
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.
