MicroPlastGuard

The MicroPlastGuard project is specifically designed to confront the urgent and pervasive issue of microplastic pollution, with a primary focus on the Baltic Sea region. The project’s central objective is to address the significant threat posed by microplastic originating from synthetic textiles, which persist in the marine environment, posing a substantial risk to both marine ecosystems and human health. In collaborating with key stakeholders in the textile production sector from Lithuania and Poland, the project seeks to bridge the scientific gaps related to the establishment of standardized test methods for quantifying the release of microplastic fibres during washing. Furthermore, the project will target the knowledge deficit among fashion brands and factories regarding the release of dry-state microplastic during the production, processing, and recycling of synthetic textiles. Recognizing the lack of widespread public awareness regarding these critical issues, the project underscores the essential role of scientific and social awareness, international expert networking, and discussions among businesses and policymakers in addressing these changes. Moreover, in addition to its focus on scientific and social awareness, the project also aims to develop innovative coatings and finishes to mitigate the emissions of microplastics from synthetic fabrics. The project is funded by the Swedish Institute.