Tackling microfibre pollution through science, policy, and innovation: A framework for Canadian leadership
Abstract
Microfibre pollution has emerged as a global conservation and public health concern, prompting a wave of research related to its source, transport, fate and effects, as well as mitigation strategies. This report provides support for the Government of Canada in decision-making on microfibres, by summarizing important elements of the topic from the scientific literature, stakeholder consultations and cross-sector activities. The goal herein is to characterize the primary sources, discharge mechanisms and environmental fate of microfibre pollution in Canada, review available methodologies and definitions, list candidate solution strategies for Canadian application, and review global advances in policy and industry. Many sources and types of microfibres exist, but current evidence suggests that environmental microfibre contamination originates largely from the textile sector, with releases arising during manufacturing, trade and laundry processes. Two broad categories of textiles in this sector are relevant to the characterisation of sources, applications and processes that result in microfibre pollution in Canada, namely conventional (clothing) and technical textiles. We focus herein on conventional textiles, as a significant, but not exclusive, source of microfibres to the Canadian environment. Additional types of products that contribute microfibres to the environment are those used in the fishing, civil engineering, medical, personal care and construction sectors, and…
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