Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimeters in size. They can come from a variety of sources, including plastic bags, bottles, straws, and clothing. Microplastics are a major environmental concern because they can pollute the ocean, harm wildlife, and even enter the human food chain.

One of the biggest sources of microplastics is synthetic clothing, such as fleece and polyester. When these clothes are washed, small fibers can be shed into the water. These fibers can then make their way into the ocean, where they can be ingested by marine life.

Microplastics can also absorb toxins from the water, which can then be passed up the food chain to humans. In addition, microplastics can block the digestive systems of marine animals, causing them to starve to death.

There are a few things that you can do to help reduce the amount of microplastics that you shed from your clothing. First, wash your synthetic clothes less frequently. Second, use a gentle cycle when you do wash them. Third, avoid using fabric softeners, as these can increase the shedding of microplastics. Finally, you can purchase clothes made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen.

By taking these steps, you can help to reduce the amount of microplastics that are polluting the ocean and harming wildlife.