The Microfiber Tragedy

Sweatshirts are always my first choice for an outfit. They envelop me in a cozy fragrance, wrapping me like a cocoon. The stains on them bear witness to my fondness for these garments. Unfortunately, they are made of polyester. Synthetic fibers are one of the main sources of microplastic pollution, which has spread globally, affecting not only the environment but also directly threatening human health.

Every time fabrics containing polyester are washed, tiny plastic fibers shed and flow away with the wash water, eventually some of them make their way into the ocean. These wandering microfibers may be ingested by marine organisms like plankton. Like most plastics, these microfibers are not biodegradable. Once ingested, they remain in the digestive systems of these organisms and may eventually accumulate in humans who consume them, including commonly eaten fish.

"I will avoid eating seafood."

Unfortunately, such a decision is not enough to solve the problem. Research indicates that the average person might ingest up to five grams of microplastics every week, with only a small portion coming from fish. Most microplastics come from drinking water. Due to their light weight and small size, microplastics can easily be carried by the wind to distant areas, even being found in the most remote corners of the Earth, such as Mount Everest.

It is almost certain that this will bring no benefits. Workers involved in the production of synthetic fibers have reported respiratory issues, and certain chemicals in plastics can disrupt human hormone balances. Furthermore, when microplastics accumulate in plankton and insects, they can cause lethal consequences by obstructing their digestion. These organisms are fundamental to the entire ecosystem, supporting other forms of life. If humanity truly wishes to reduce plastic pollution, we must undertake significant changes. As members of society, we need to scrutinize our consumption and production of plastic products and be willing to let go of some of the conveniences we take for granted.

Even if it means saying goodbye to that beloved sweatshirt.