How does pure, strong wool reduce microplastics?
“The more wool used in all products of life, the fewer impact microplastics can have on our environment”
- Angus Hansen
Key Takeaways
What Are Microplastics? Tiny plastic particles from synthetic materials pollute ecosystems.
Environmental Threats: Microplastics harm marine life, enter food chains, and impact human health.
Wool’s Advantage: Wool biodegrades naturally and avoids shedding harmful particles.
A Better Choice: Choose wool to reduce microplastic pollution in clothing, bedding, furniture and home goods.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimetres in size, that result from the breakdown of larger plastic products. These particles can also be shed from synthetic textiles like polyester, acrylic, and nylon through washing and wear and tear.
Sources of Microplastics:
Synthetic - Textiles, clothing, bedding, furniture and carpets all shed fibres while being used and during washing.
Cosmetics: Microbeads used in exfoliants and scrubs.
Plastic Waste: Degradation of bags, bottles, and packaging.
Construction materials: roading, building, industrial
Why Are Microplastics a Problem?
Microplastics pose significant threats to the environment and human health:
1. Marine Pollution
Microplastics often enter waterways, where they are ingested by marine animals, disrupting ecosystems.
2. Human Health Risks
Microplastics are found in food and water supplies, potentially carrying toxic chemicals. Studies have linked microplastic exposure to:
Hormonal disruptions
Respiratory issues
Unknown long-term health effects
3. Persistence in the Environment
Plastic fibres take hundreds of years to degrade, contributing to long-term pollution.
Six things you might not know about Microplastics:
They love a good laundry day. Each time we wash synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon found in synthetic duvets and the like, countless plastic microfibers are shed, travel through wastewater, and often end up in rivers, oceans, and ultimately inside aquatic organisms.
They’re everywhere—literally. Scientists have found microplastics in ocean depths, on mountaintops, floating through the air, and even hanging out in our bodies.
They’re unintentionally on the menu. Many marine animals ingest microplastics by mistake, and that can transfer up the food chain, possibly ending up on our dinner plates too (bon appétit, right?).
Inhalation: Microplastics can become airborne, hitching a ride on dust particles and drifting indoors and outdoors, leading to possible inhalation.
They can act like toxin sponges. Microplastics can carry and concentrate harmful chemicals, transporting them to wherever they drift—often right into living organisms.
Their health impact on humans is still a mystery. While researchers are concerned about possible biological effects, the full scope of microplastic-related health risks remains unclear, prompting ongoing scientific investigations.
How Wool Helps Combat Microplastic Pollution
Pure Wool offers a natural, sustainable alternative to synthetic fibres, helping to reduce the impact of microplastics:
1. Biodegradability
Unlike synthetic materials, pure wool is fully biodegradable. When disposed of, pure wool decomposes within 1–5 years, enriching the soil rather than polluting it.
2. Natural Fibre Shedding
When wool fibres are shed, they break down into organic compounds that do not harm the environment.
3. Minimal Processing
Wool is naturally processed and requires minimal chemical treatments compared to synthetic materials.
Wool vs. Synthetic Materials
| Feature | Wool | Synthetic Materials |
|---|---|---|
| Microplastic Shedding | None | High |
| Biodegradability | Fully decomposes | Persistent in the environment |
| Eco-Friendliness | Renewable and sustainable | Petroleum-based, non-renewable |
Everyday Applications to Avoid Microplastics
Choose Wool for:
Clothing: Wool sweaters, coats, and base layers are stylish, durable, and environmentally friendly.
Bedding: Wool mattresses, duvets, comforters, pillows and mattress toppers offer breathable, moisture-wicking comfort without synthetic fibres.
Furniture: Upholstery padding, scatter cushions - wool offers soft support, structural integrity, and sustainability.
Carpets and Rugs: Wool carpets are tough and beautiful and eliminate synthetic microplastic shedding.
Reusable Products: Opt for wool dryer balls instead of plastic dryer sheets to reduce waste.
How to Reduce Microplastic Pollution at Home
Switch to Natural Fibers: Prioritise wool, cotton, and hemp over synthetics.
Wash Less Frequently: Reduce fibre shedding by washing clothes only when necessary.
Support Sustainable Brands: Look for companies committed to reducing plastic use in their products.
In Summary
Microplastics are a pressing environmental challenge, but wool offers a compelling solution. As a biodegradable, durable, and renewable material, wool supports a healthier planet and reduces reliance on synthetic fibres. By choosing wool products, you can take a meaningful step toward minimising microplastic pollution.
Ready to make a difference? Explore our Wisewool™ range of wool products and join the movement against microplastic pollution today!