Microplastics are everywhere – in our oceans, our food, and even in the air we breathe. As awareness of this environmental issue grows, some consumers are reconsidering their purchasing habits, particularly when it comes to products made from recycled materials like RPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate). However, it’s crucial to separate fact from misconception. Despite the concerns about microplastics, RPET outdoor gear remains one of the most sustainable choices for eco-conscious adventurers. Here’s why.
What Are Microplastics?
Primary Microplastics: Intentionally manufactured small plastics, such as microbeads in cosmetics.
Secondary Microplastics: Fragments that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as bottles, bags, and synthetic textiles, often due to exposure to sunlight, heat, or mechanical wear.
Secondary Microplastics: Fragments that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as bottles, bags, and synthetic textiles, often due to exposure to sunlight, heat, or mechanical wear.
The Link Between Synthetic Fabrics and Microplastics
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic – including those made from virgin or recycled plastics – can shed microfibers during washing. These microfibers, a type of secondary microplastic, may enter waterways and contribute to pollution. Understandably, this raises concerns about products made from recycled plastics, such as RPET.
Why RPET Outdoor Gear Is Still a Smart Choice
While it’s true that synthetic fabrics, whether virgin or recycled, can shed microfibers, focusing solely on this aspect overlooks the broader environmental benefits of RPET. Here are some compelling reasons why RPET outdoor gear is a sustainable and responsible choice:
1. Diverting Plastic Waste
RPET products repurpose plastic waste, such as water bottles, that might otherwise end up in landfills or oceans. By choosing RPET, consumers help reduce the demand for virgin plastic production and mitigate the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
2. Lower Carbon Footprint
Manufacturing RPET requires significantly less energy than producing virgin polyester. According to studies, RPET production generates up to 75% fewer carbon emissions, making it a climate-friendly alternative.
3. Durability and Longevity
High-quality outdoor gear made from RPET is designed to last. Durable gear reduces the need for frequent replacements, ultimately lowering overall environmental impact.
4. No Added Microplastic Impact
Recycled fabrics do not inherently shed more microplastics than virgin materials. The shedding of microfibers is a property of synthetic textiles in general, not a characteristic unique to RPET. Choosing RPET gear does not increase your contribution to microplastic pollution.
5. Innovations in Fiber Technology
The outdoor gear industry is continually innovating to address microfiber shedding. Solutions include tighter weaves, advanced coatings, and improved washing techniques. By supporting brands that use RPET, you also encourage further investment in these sustainable technologies.
How to Reduce Microplastic Shedding from Outdoor Gear
While microplastic shedding is a concern, there are practical steps consumers can take to minimize their impact:
Use a Microfiber Filter: Washing machine filters, such as the Guppyfriend bag or Cora Ball, can capture microfibers before they enter the water system.
Wash Less Frequently: Only wash gear when necessary and use cold water on a gentle cycle.
Avoid Harsh Detergents: Opt for eco-friendly detergents that are less likely to degrade fibers.
Air Dry: Reduce wear and tear by air drying instead of using a tumble dryer.
The Bigger Picture
Microplastic pollution is a complex issue that requires systemic solutions, including better waste management, innovations in textile production, and stricter regulations on primary microplastics. As consumers, we can play our part by making informed, sustainable choices.
Choosing RPET outdoor gear aligns with this ethos. It supports the circular economy, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and helps tackle the monumental challenge of plastic waste. By focusing on the bigger picture, we can make a positive impact without succumbing to misconceptions about microplastics.
Microplastics are an undeniable environmental concern, but they should not overshadow the significant benefits of using recycled materials like RPET in outdoor gear. By choosing RPET, you’re not only making a sustainable choice but also contributing to the fight against plastic pollution.
Next time you’re shopping for outdoor gear, let sustainability and innovation guide your decision. RPET products represent progress toward a cleaner, greener future—without compromising on performance or ethics.