We have all seen photos of beautiful beaches covered in plastic. Inside the pictures, we see birds, turtles, and other sea creatures sharing their habitats with discarded plastic piles.
Right now the focus is on cleaning up the beach though
In the depths of the ocean, another large layer of plastic is forming. Scientists estimate that the ocean floor alone contains more than 14 million tons of microplastics. These small pieces of plastic are often too small to see with the naked eye and can measure up to 5mm in size.
But even so small, these micro-plastics can have devastating effects on the ecosystem as well as human health. More than 80% of piped water samples worldwide contain microplastic particles. According to a study by the World Wildlife Fund, people inhale and exhale the same amount of plastic as one credit card per week through the water.
How does microplastic come about?
Microplastics can enter the environment in a variety of ways. The first is the direct release of small plastic particles, such as micro-beads. This is the primary microplastic. The second method is to break down the everyday items into smaller pieces over time. These are known as biodegradable microplastics.
But what most people don't know is that even when you do laundry, your synthetic fabrics, fur, nylon jackets, yoga pants all release micro-plastic from these outfits. These release microplastics into the environment in a number of stages from production.
Let's stop the microplastic
However, the removal of microplastics from our waterways will begin soon. NGOs, governments, and brands around the world are working together to help dispose of this growing harmful plastic.
Samsung's add-on filters and laundry bags are just beginning, but a perfect solution to this plastic problem is needed. That's why Patagonia is working with Samsung to find a joint solution
Samsung has come a long way in developing these long-lasting devices that enhance environmental sustainability. Samsung's washing machines already use a unique feature called Ecobubble. This allows customers to clean their clothes efficiently, generating more bubbles even at lower temperatures. This helps the detergent absorb the fabric quickly and remove dirt, all of which saves energy and preserves the color and texture of the clothes.
Samsung and Patagonia will continue to design products that mitigate the impact on the environment. Because the best way to get rid of plastic in our oceans is to prevent it at the outset.
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