Fighting Microfiber Pollution
TNC and leading apparel companies come together to reduce microfiber pollution in textile sector
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is proud to launch the Microfiber Action Alliance (MAA), a new multi-stakeholder initiative to combat microfiber pollution by accelerating the adoption and scaling of effective, evidence-based solutions. Convened by TNC, the founding cohort includes Nike, Patagonia, Under Armour, lululemon, Cotopaxi, REI Co-op and EILEEN FISHER, Inc., among other leading brands.
Microfibers are small particles that shed from both synthetic and natural textiles. Alongside use and wear, the production of clothing and textiles is a significant contributor to microfiber pollution globally. Once in the environment, microfibers are extremely difficult to remove because they are so small and easily dispersed, underscoring the importance of prevention.
Fortunately, a range of effective solutions exist. Complementing the work of The Microfibre Consortium, which convenes across the textile industry to develop the science, data and tools needed to reduce fiber fragmentation, TNC will work with participating companies to better understand, refine and advance solutions that can meaningfully reduce microfiber pollution. Through actions taken within each participating company's supply chain, the MAA will generate practical insights on what works and share those lessons with the broader industry to help drive wider adoption.
With the initial participation of these companies—and opportunities for additional companies to join—the Microfiber Action Alliance is creating a credible, scalable roadmap for industry-wide progress over time.
Ready to learn more? Reach out to microfiberaction@tnc.org
Addressing microfiber pollution is a complicated problem that requires collaboration across the textile sector. We believe the Microfiber Action Alliance can help accelerate the adoption of solutions that benefit freshwater ecosystems, oceans, wildlife and communities worldwide.
Join Us
Apparel brands interested in joining the Microfiber Action Alliance or learning more about reducing microfiber pollution can email us at microfiberaction@tnc.org.
Industry Resources are Ready
A myriad of effective solutions already exist that can significantly reduce microfiber emissions during the manufacturing process and across the lifecycle of clothing. These solutions include, but are not limited to:
- Filtration technology in textile mills
- Material and design innovations that reduce shedding, informed by new testing methodologies
- Production and manufacturing changes that reduce fiber loss
These solutions also offer many co-benefits, such as water savings, cost reductions and the creation of more durable materials. Check out the resources below to learn more about these different options.
Microfiber pollution is a pervasive problem that affects everyone on the planet, and this alliance creates strategic tools for apparel companies to find solutions to that problem.
Reducing Microfiber Pollution: An Industry Playbook
This playbook offers a set of science-based, cost-effective and easily actionable resources for brands. Developed by The 5 Gyres Institute and The Nature Conservancy, these three guides provide practical strategies for implementing solutions in the manufacturing processes, when sourcing materials and in design. Each guide is designed to support implementation of easy wins—proven strategies that don’t require perfect data or regulatory pressure to begin.
Manufacturing Processes
For production teams, with filtration, washing and finishing improvements.
Sourcing Materials
For sourcing professionals, with supplier engagement tools and material library suggestions.
Design Solutions
For designers and developers, with fiber, yarn and construction swaps.
Through the MAA, we’re combining scientific insight with industry collaboration to better understand where pollution occurs, deploy effective interventions and accelerate progress across the apparel value chain. That’s how meaningful change happens, by learning together and acting together.
Join Us
Apparel brands interested in joining the Microfiber Action Alliance or learning more about reducing microfiber pollution can email us at microfiberaction@tnc.org.
Reach outMicrofiber Action Alliance Funders
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World Group Foundation
World Group Foundation’s purpose is driven by the powerful idea that the way we care can make a difference.
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