Microplastics
What Are Microplastics and Why Are They a Threat to Our Oceans?
Microplastics have become one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. These tiny...
4 min read
Microplastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. The Women’s Institute (WI), through its End Plastic Soup campaign, and the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Microplastics, are at the forefront of efforts to address this issue. Together, they are championing innovative research, raising public awareness, and advocating for legislative solutions to combat microplastic pollution at its source.
The WI’s End Plastic Soup Campaign: A Grassroots Movement
The WI, the UK’s largest women’s voluntary organisation, launched the End Plastic Soup campaign in 2017 to tackle microplastic fibres released from synthetic textiles during washing. These fibres often evade filtration systems, entering rivers, oceans, and the food chain. The campaign has three core objectives:
- Raising awareness: WI members educate their communities about microplastics through events, workshops, and social media. They also encourage individuals to adopt sustainable washing practices and reduce clothing waste.
- Promoting research and innovation: The WI calls for investment in technologies to reduce microfibre release, including advanced washing machine filters and sustainable textile production.
- Advocating for systemic change: The WI works with policymakers and industry leaders to push for robust measures to curb microplastic pollution. It encourages government action to ensure accountability across the supply chain.
Notably, WI members are urged to contact their MPs and advocate for policies such as mandatory microfibre filters in washing machines and better monitoring of wastewater treatment facilities. This grassroots activism exemplifies the WI’s historic commitment to environmental protection.
The APPG on Microplastics: Driving Legislative Action
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Microplastics was established to bring together policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders to address microplastic pollution comprehensively. Chaired by Alberto Costa MP, the APPG focuses on legislative solutions and cross-sector collaboration.
Key Recommendations from the APPG:
- Mandatory microfibre filters: One of the APPG’s central proposals is to require all new washing machines to be fitted with microfibre filters. This measure could significantly reduce microplastic pollution from domestic laundry.
- Improved wastewater management: The APPG advocates for better filtration systems at wastewater treatment plants to capture microplastics before they enter water systems.
- Support for sustainable fashion: Encouraging a shift from a linear economy (make-use-dispose) to a circular economy, the APPG highlights the need for innovations in sustainable textiles and recycling infrastructure.
The APPG also works closely with organisations like the WI to amplify the voices of concerned citizens and provide evidence-based recommendations to Parliament.
Legislation and Future Goals
The efforts of the WI and APPG are already influencing government policies. The UK Government is considering introducing legislation to mandate microfibre filters in washing machines by 2025. Meanwhile, ongoing research aims to identify additional measures, such as incentives for sustainable fashion brands and stricter regulations on wastewater discharge.
Both groups envision a future where microplastic pollution is significantly reduced through a combination of innovation, education, and legislation. Achieving this goal will require cooperation across industries, governments, and communities.
Why This Matters
Microplastic pollution poses serious threats to marine ecosystems, wildlife, and potentially human health. Studies reveal that microplastics are ingested by aquatic organisms, disrupting feeding behaviours and reproductive cycles. Alarmingly, microplastics have also been detected in drinking water, air, and human tissues, raising concerns about long-term health impacts.
By tackling microplastic pollution at its source, the WI and APPG aim to protect the planet for future generations. Their collaborative approach demonstrates the power of grassroots activism combined with legislative advocacy.
How You Can Help
Combatting microplastic pollution requires collective action. Here are some steps you can take:
- Change laundry habits: Use a microfibre-catching laundry bag or install a retrofitted filter to minimise microfibre release. Take a look at our blog
- Support sustainable fashion: Choose quality, durable clothing and repair items when possible.
- Engage with policymakers: Write to your MP to express support for mandatory microfibre filters and other anti-pollution measures.
Together, we can turn the tide on microplastic pollution and protect our oceans, waterways, and communities. For more information, visit the WI’s End Plastic Soup campaign page
