Technology manufacturer Samsung is partnering with outdoor clothing brand Patagonia to develop a washing machine that will filter microplastics. The new product is intended to keep waste products from detergents and textiles away from seawater. The sophisticated, practical and efficient method could thereby minimize the negative effectsImpact on the environmentcontribute.
Development of environmentally friendly household appliances that filter microplastics
Microplastic waste has become a serious environmental problem that can have devastating effects on ecosystems and human health. Scientists estimate that the seabed alone now contains over 14 million tons of microplastics measuring up to 5 mm in size. This can come from a variety of sources, such as larger plastic spills, microbeads in beauty products, and even laundry. In addition, when nylon, polyester or elastane is washed, microplastics are released into the wastewater. When this water is drained, it ends up in septic tanks, sewage systems, and wastewater treatment plants before ultimately reaching oceans. To stop such waste products during the washing cycle, there are already additional microfiber filters for washing machines. People can also use laundry bags designed to catch micro-waste. However, Samsung is looking for a holistic solution. The company's press release states: "The best way to remove plastic from our oceans is to prevent it from ending up there in the first place."
All Samsung washing machines already have a feature called Ecobubble, which allows people to wash their clothes at lower temperatures with more bubbles. This in turn saves energy and gives the garments a longer lifespan. Additionally, the company's AI Wash feature uses sensors in the washing machine to calculate the weight of the load and the required level of soiling. This means less water, detergent and energy are used to clean clothes. However, given this technology and the partnership between Samsung and Patagonia, it remains to be seen what the future holds for eco-friendly washing machines. In the meantime, people can always use a laundry bag to prevent pollution by filtering the microplastics.
