It’s Time to Audit Your Closet!
HOW MUCH IS YOUR WARDROBE CONTRIBUTING TO PLASTIC POLLUTION?
Microfibers are shed from your clothing every time you wash them. Millions of them are flushed out of your home through your wastewater with each load of laundry. Many ultimately find their way into our ecosystem — in lakes, rivers, and streams, in the bellies of wildlife, and even on our dinner plates.
The problem with these microscopic particles of fabric are that many of them are actually made of plastic. Many fabrics and cheap articles of clothing are woven of recycled plastic materials.
We challenge you to take a look in your closet! How much are the wardrobe choices you’re making contributing to the plastic pollution problem that’s overwhelming our ecosystem?
Polyester – Polyester has come a long way since the leisure suit stylings of the 1970’s. Look at your shirts and pants; at sport coats, jackets, and hats. Look at the tags on blankets, comforters and bed sheets. Each time you wash any of these items, you’re potentially washing plastic into the environment.
Spandex – Are you someone who has turned yoga pants into a regular staple of your wardrobe? Yoga pants are often made from synthetic fibers like Lycra and Spandex — even the high end brands! While some brands boast a blend of fabrics, most still are comprised of at least 40% plastic.
Faux Fur – This is one of those odd paradoxes, where an effort to save animals is potentially harmful to animals. Some people choose faux fur because it’s much cheaper than the real thing. Others do so because of their desire to protect animals. Whatever the reason, faux fur is often made of micro-plastic particles. While the process for washing these articles might vary, the plastic exists in them and ends up ultimately being shed.
Nylon – Many outerwear and activewear garments are made of nylon – which is the first 100% synthetic material. It’s used to manufacture and supplement the materials in silk, rubber, and latex as well.
These fabrics, among others, are flushing plastic particles from your home’s laundry machine and into the ecosystem. And while it may not be possible to go with an entirely natural closet, there are still steps you can take to make sure your fashion decisions aren’t so negatively impacting our environment.