THE PROBLEM

Synthetic materials used in clothes such as polyester, acrylic and nylon represent about approximately 60% of clothing material worldwide. When washed, these clothing materials shed tiny fibers, called microplastics, that go down the drain with waste water, and can contaminate waterways. Microplastic contamination of the oceans is one of the world’s most pressing environmental concerns. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), reports that plastic particles washed off of products such as synthetic clothes, represent 35% of the plastic polluting our oceans.

See https://portals.iucn.org/library/sites/library/files/documents/2017-002.pdf for more information. 

THE SOLUTION

PlanetCare filter stop harmful plastic microfibers that shed from our clothes during washing, before they flow into the water system and pollute the oceans. PlanetCare microfiber filters have been independently tested and proven to stop 90% of microfibers.

The filter is based on physical filtration, and no chemicals are used at any stage of the process. All the water coming from a washing machine is filtered, and a specifically designed in-depth filter that captures a wide range of fiber sizes (generally between 50 microns and 5 millimeters) is used.

Household add-on filter 

The filter is an external retrofit device, compatible with all washing machines. Users can choose between a monthly subscription service and a starter pack. All customers receive a filter, replacement cartridges, a hose, a mount, and a small counter of wash cycles. Installation is quick and easy; users are guided through all steps by a ‘how-to’ video (https://shop.planetcare.org/pages/how-it-works). Filters for domestic washing machines are available worldwide from PlanetCare’s online shop (www.shop.planetcare.org). 

Commercial Filters

The commercial microfiber filter is designed for the service industry using larger washing machines, such as launderettes, smaller hotels, sports facilities, marinas etc.

The commercial filter functions along the same principles as the external filter. It uses exchangeable cartridges and does not use chemicals or electricity. The filter is adapted to accommodate very high water flows, it has a small footprint and is designed for easy maintenance.

This is a tailored solution: PlanetCare works closely with the client to ensure the filter integrates seamlessly into the existing set-up.

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS

There are a number of competing solutions that address microfiber releases from laundry, including:

• Guppy Friend washing bag from Langbrett
• Cora Ball, microfiber-catching laundry ball
• Filtrol 160, washing machine lint filter
• Lint LUV-r, washing machine discharge filter
• Xeros Technologies, washing machine filter

CASE STUDY EXAMPLES

For the most recent case study examples, see the attached document here.