A new report released has provided the first data-driven insights into the root causes of fibre fragmentation from finished fabrics in the fashion and textile industry. Published by The Microfibre Consortium, the technical research report presents the results of statistical analysis from testing over 1,000 different fabrics. It identifies key characteristics that contribute to fibre shedding. This represents a major step forward in determining actions that textile and apparel manufacturers can take to mitigate fibre fragmentation into the natural environment.
The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) is a science-led non-profit organisation that leads the Microfibre 2030 Commitment and Roadmap, to mitigate fibre fragment loss and release from all textiles to the natural environment, through global multi-stakeholder collaboration. It is the first and only organisation solely dedicated to this issue and works on behalf of its signatory base, which comprises 95 brands, retailers, suppliers, researchers, laboratories and affiliated organisations.
The technical research report, ‘Root Cause Analysis: Unravelling the Root Causes Behind Fibre Fragmentation in Textiles’, is the first large-scale global study to examine how specific fabric characteristics influence fibre loss during the initial cycle of domestic laundering. The study is based on data from The Microfibre Data Portal, which contains standardised test results using the internationally aligned TMC Test Method. TMC’s research highlights the fabric properties most likely to drive fibre fragmentation, providing valuable insights that can inform upstream material design and development. These findings will contribute to the growing knowledge on fibre fragmentation, supporting science-based strategies for mitigation.
Dr Kelly Sheridan, CEO of The Microfibre Consortium
Dr Kelly Sheridan, CEO of The Microfibre Consortium, comments: “The publication of this report marks a significant milestone in the fashion and textile industry’s efforts to address the challenge of fibre fragmentation. The research has been extensive and robust, which is only possible thanks to the collective data contributions of our signatories.
“We’re proud to lead this global effort, but the path forward depends on continued collaboration and the sustained support of companies that sign the Microfibre 2030 Commitment. With this data, we’re closer than ever to meaningful solutions.”
Following the publication of its latest report, TMC is now advancing into the next phase of this work. Future research priorities will aim to plug knowledge gaps and address them with scientific rigour, leading to well-informed recommendations for industry action. TMC also plans to incorporate machine learning techniques, paving the way for the development of predictive models for fibre shedding, and offering significant potential for proactive solutions in material design and development.
Unravelling the Root Causes Behind Fibre Fragmentation in Textiles is available now on TMC’s website HERE. To discuss how to sign up to The Microfibre 2030 Commitment and get involved in the project, please contact 2030@mirofibreconsortium.com.
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