Microplastic pollution is a growing environmental concern that is attracting researchers to understand the impact to human health. Recent studies have underscored the dangers of microplastics and highlights their impact on environmental ecosystems and need for future human health risk assessments[1].
The Microplastic Problem in Textiles
All apparel sheds tiny fibers, known as microfibers, especially during laundering. When these fibers are synthetic, they become microplastics—tiny plastic fragments, fibers, pellets, or granules measuring 5 mm or smaller that pollute waterways [2] and is likely to infiltrate our food supply[3] . In contrast, cotton microfibers are biodegradable, breaking down naturally in water[4] and soil[5].
Recognizing this critical difference, Cotton Incorporated conducted extensive research for years, highlighting the environmental advantages of cotton over synthetic fibers, particularly its biodegradability and ability to return to the earth [6].
Cotton Incorporated research has found that the production, use, and disposal of synthetic garments can result in 3 to 21 times more plastic leakage compared to garments made from natural fibers like cotton [7].
The persistence of microplastics in the environment and the human body raises significant concerns. These tiny particles do not break down easily, accumulating in ecosystems, drinking water, and the food we eat. Research, while inconclusive, suggests that once microplastics enter the body, they may trigger health issues[8], making the need for biodegradable alternatives even more critical.
Microplastics shed by synthetic apparel have been detected in human bone marrow, and in brain samples from dementia patients, according to a Chinese study of 21 patients. Although the study results cannot be generalized to the general public due to study size limitations, further studies are expected to clarify the effects of microplastics on human health.
Microplastics and nanoplastics are pervasive in the environment and have been detected in human kidney, liver and brain, according to a recent study in Nature Medicine. More studies are needed with larger cohorts to understand the role of microplastics and nanoplastics in neurological disorders or other human health effects. While avoiding microplastics entirely is challenging, choosing materials like cotton can help minimize exposure.
The Case for Cotton as a Natural Alternative
Unlike synthetic fibers, cotton is a biodegradable, natural fiber that does not contribute to microplastic pollution. When washed, cotton fibers break down naturally in the environment, unlike plastic-based textiles that persist in our waterways. This makes cotton an essential part of sustainable fashion solutions and a natural choice for brands looking to reduce their impact on the growing microplastic crisis.
Cotton, even when treated with finishes or dyes, is a natural fiber that can be returned to the earth[9]. Learn more about cotton’s impact and its role in sustainability.
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389420319944?via%3Dihub Kala Senathirajah, Simon Attwood, Geetika Bhagwat, Maddison Carbery, Scott Wilson, Thava Palanisami (2021). Estimation of the mass of microplastics ingested – A pivotal first step towards human health risk assessment, Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 404
[2] https://www.adventurescientists.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2018_microplastics-report_final-2.pdf
[3] https://www.nature.com/articles/494169a Rochman, C. M., Browne, M. A., Halpern, B. S., Hentschel, B. T., Hoh, E., Karapanagioti, H. K., Rios-Mendoza, L. M., Takada, H., Teh, S., & Thompson, R. C. (2013). Classify plastic waste as hazardous. Nature, 494(7436), 169–171. https://doi.org/10.1038/494169a
[4] Zambrano, M. C., Pawlak, J. J., Daystar, J., Ankeny, M., & Venditti, R. A. (2021). Impact of dyes and finishes on the aquatic biodegradability of cotton textile fibers and microfibers released on laundering clothes: Correlations between enzyme adsorption and activity and biodegradation rates. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 165.
[5] Lili; Frey, Margaret; Browning, Kristie (2010). Biodegradability study on cotton and polyester fabrics. Journal of Engineered Fiber and Fabrics, 5(4), 42-53
[6] In composting tests, cotton fabric samples lost 50-77% of weight after 90 days. (Li, Lili; Frey, Margaret; Browning, Kristie (2010). Biodegradability study on cotton and polyester fabrics. Journal of Engineered Fiber and Fabrics, 5(4), 42-53.
[7] Cotton Incorporated. (2024). Plastic leakage assessment of the global apparel industry: Topline report. Retrieved from https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Plastic_Leakage_Assessment_of_Global_Apparel_Industry_Topline_Report.pdf)
[8] Kala Senathirajah, Simon Attwood, Geetika Bhagwat, Maddison Carbery, Scott Wilson, Thava Palanisami (2021). Estimation of the mass of microplastics ingested – A pivotal first step towards human health risk assessment, Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 404
[9] Schwarz, M., Alwala, W., Perju, A., Bonhotal, J., Frey, M., Pires, S., … Daystar, J. (2024). The Effect of Denim Fabric as a Feedstock in Large Scale Composting of Manure/Bedding and Food Scraps. Compost Science & Utilization, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/1065657X.2024.2349081