New Research Hub In England To Study Microfibre Pollution From Textiles
A newly established research hub in North East England will investigate the extent and environmental impact of microfibre pollution from textiles.
The Fibre Fragmentation and Environment Research Hub (FibER Hub), located at Northumbria University in Newcastle, is a collaboration between the university and The Microfibre Consortium (TMC). It will extensively test various fabrics to determine microfibre loss under different conditions and its environmental effects.
Microfibre shedding occurs throughout a textile’s lifespan, from manufacturing to daily wear. Even natural fabrics like cotton can contribute to pollution due to chemical treatments used in production. The FibER Hub, based in Northumbria’s School of Design, is equipped with advanced technology to measure fibre shedding at each stage.
While previous research has focused on microfibre loss from domestic laundering, this collaboration aims to explore shedding in broader environmental contexts. Findings will support the development of sustainable textiles with reduced shedding rates.
The initiative is part of the IMPACT+ project, a UK Research and Innovation-funded network addressing environmental assessment in fashion and textiles. It brings together experts from Northumbria University, King’s College London, and Loughborough University, alongside industry leaders such as Barbour, Montane, ASOS, and sustainability advocates like Fashion Revolution and WRAP.
Dr Alana James, Principal Investigator for IMPACT+, emphasized the project’s focus on tackling microfibre pollution at its source. TMC CEO and Northumbria Associate Professor Dr Kelly Sheridan highlighted how the collaboration will expand industry-relevant research and generate comprehensive lifespan data on fibre fragmentation.
