New study shows fashion industry’s plastic waste problem

The fashion industry generates millions of tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which pollutes the environment due to poor disposal practices. A study by NC State University found that in 2019, the fashion sector produced over 20 million tonnes of plastic waste, with synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic contributing 89% of this total. This plastic pollution primarily affects lower-income countries, where discarded clothes often end up, worsening environmental problems. Key sources of plastic waste include thrown-away clothes, especially synthetic ones, as well as waste from manufacturing, packaging, and tire abrasion during transport. Microplastics released during laundry further contribute to pollution, affecting water, soil, and the food chain.