Microfiber Waste Assessment for an Italian Textile Dyeing Company

The textile industry plays a substantial role in causing environmental pollution, specifically by generating textile waste, which consists of both macro and micro waste. Microfibers (MFs), which are typically less than 5 mm in length, are discharged into the environment at different stages in textile manufacturing, especially during wet processes. Textile dyeing processes are recognized for emitting substantial amounts of MFs, which present notable environmental risks. Synthetic microfibers can accumulate in various ecosystems and persist in the environment for extended periods. Furthermore, it has been discovered that MFs possess the ability to absorb detrimental chemicals and pollutants, which can endanger aquatic organisms and potentially infiltrate the food chain, thereby having potential consequences for human well- being. This study examines the amount of MFs released by an Italian dyeing company during each operation, encompassing underground water used in the process, inflow and outflow wastewater, and sludge. By utilizing the ISO 4484-2 standard for sample pretreatment, MFs separation, and identification, the research aims to accurately measure the quantity of MFs at every stage. The findings clarify the relative impact of each stage on the total release of MFs and evaluate the efficiency of the existing wastewater treatment system in capturing MFs. By addressing the challenges posed by MF pollution, the textile industry can take significant strides towards minimizing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable practices.