The environmental and social impacts of a lightning-fast fashion industry are increasingly in the spotlight. While the broader environmental consequences of textile related pollution are well-known, the specific damage caused by microplastic pollution to marine ecosystems and wildlife is still widely overlooked.
Seas At Risk aims to drive EU policy changes that reduce microplastic emissions from synthetic textiles, promote citizen awareness, and encourage sustainable industry practices. Closing the tap on the millions of toxic microplastics and microfibres that pollute our ocean and rivers requires a sharp and strategic advocacy approach. By empowering policymakers, encouraging ambitious business practices and informing consumers, we can inspire a sustainable shift in the textile sector and keep the ocean free of microplastics.
Paving the way to sustainable textiles with strategic advocacy
By 2026, we are confident that the European Union can reduce microplastic emissions by incorporating eco-design criteria for the apparel sector to uphold. We will work closely with EU institutions to promote eco-design standards and input into the revision of the textile labelling regulation. Finally, we will promote proven best practices and sustainable solutions from across the EU to key stakeholders and promote the stories already reshaping the European textile landscape.
As the voice of the ocean, Seas At Risk will work to shift the burden of responsibility for textile pollution from unaware and powerless consumers to the decision-makers and industry leaders who can make a difference. Through targeted advocacy and collaboration with stakeholders, Seas At Risk aims to reduce textile pollution and promote sustainability in the textile industry. By rethinking garment manufacturing, promoting eco-design and driving systemic change, Seas At Risk imagines a world where aquatic ecosystems and humans are safe from the toxic harms of textile microplastic pollution.
Headerphoto credit Keagan Henman / Matt Hardy / Unsplash