GBA Update Summer 2024

In a large city like Toronto, the annual microfibre capture could be 12-166 trillion microfibres. In the Parry Sound study, observations of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants effluent were reduced by 41 per cent. This significant difference in microfibre count pre- and post-filter deployment suggests that adding filters to washing machines reduces microfibre emissions to water bodies via treated wastewater. What Can You Do? We can take many steps to contribute to the solution for plastic pollution. Below is a list of suggestions: 1. Use cold water: Washing in cold water reduces microfibre shedding. 2. Opt for front-loading washing machines: Hartline’s study shows that front-load washing machines had seven times fewer microfibres shed than top-load machines. 2 3. Install a microfibre filter: An external filter can capture up to 89 per cent of microfibres. Many filters are available for purchase, so be sure to research. 4. Avoid fast fashion: Choose sustainable brand options when possible, or purchase from vintage and thrift shops. 5. Re-use and re-purpose: Extend the life of textiles and plastics through repair and repurposing. 6. Embrace reusables: Opt for reusable items such as bottles and bags to reduce single-use plastics. 7. Advocate for Change: Write your MPP to support Ontario mandating filters on washing machines.

A group gathered at Queen’s Park on February 22, 2024, to discuss microfibre pollution in the Great Lakes. They suggested using washing machine filters as a solution to this problem. The group included (from left to right) Eden Hataley, a Ph.D. student studying microplastic pollution management, GBA Board Director Heather Sargeant, Simcoe—Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, and GBA Executive Director Rupert Kindersley. Microfibre filters are effective in both small and large-scale settings and play a significant role in reducing microfibres in our environment. Filters can be installed in washing machines to tackle plastic pollution, but this requires support from legislation, innovation, education, and awareness. By increasing our knowledge, working with our communities, and making small changes in our personal lives, we can work together to protect the health of our local ecosystems and families.

1 Munno, Keenan, et al. “Microplastic Contamination in Great Lakes Fish.” Conservation Biology , vol. 36, no. 1, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.13794.

2 Hartline, Niko L., et al. “Microfiber Masses Recovered from Conventional Machine Washing of New or Aged Garments.” Environmental Science & Technology , vol. 50, no. 21, 2016, pp. 11532–11538., https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.6b03045.

www.georgianbay.ca

GBA UPDATE Summer 2024

3