### The impact of plastic in our clothes: an issue for our planet
As the Earth Day approaches, the question of plastic pollution is of particular importance. Indeed, if plastic is often associated with packaging and products for single use, it is also omnipresent in clothing. The majority of our clothes contain synthetic fibers, mainly polyester, a reality that deserves to be examined closely.
#### An unknown imprint
Rachael Z. Miller, founder of the Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean, underlines that the majority of clothes today are made from materials with a plastic base. Of two thirds of global textile production, a large part consists of synthetic fibers. This phenomenon has important environmental implications which are often overlooked by the general public. Synthetic clothes, when worn and washed, release tiny microfibers in our waters. These microplastics join the rivers, then the ocean, where they can be ingested by marine fauna and, by ricochet, enter the human food chain.
#### at the individual level: accessible gestures
Faced with this worrying reality, everyone can consider actions at their level. For example, adapting the frequency of washing or using cold water can help reduce fiber tearing. This approach encourages a reflection on our consumption habits and the importance of questions such as the sustainability and longevity of our clothes.
#### An innovation: the Cora Ball
To complete these individual initiatives, Rachael Miller has developed the Cora Ball, an innovative tool inspired by nature. This device makes it possible to reduce the friction of clothes in the washing machine, thus minimizing their wear and tear and the release of microfibers. The Cora Ball, by collecting part of the detached fibers, represents a modest but encouraging advance in the fight against pollution linked to clothing.
This invention also raises a question of our relationship to technology and its potential to solve environmental problems. If the Cora Ball presents itself as a step towards a solution, it is essential to wonder if similar inventions will be enough to stem such a large problem.
#### A look to the textile industry
Beyond individual solutions, it is just as crucial to examine the practices of the textile industry itself. According to the United Nations Environment Program, a transformation to more sustainable production models becomes imperative. This could include the adoption of alternative materials, the implementation of effective recycling systems, or even improving working conditions in production factories.
This transition poses deep questions: what responsibilities incumbent on consumers, regulations, and production itself? How to encourage companies to review their supply chain and their production methods without penalizing workers who also depend on these jobs?
#### Conclusion: a collective reflection
The debate on plastic in our clothes cannot be reduced to a simple question of innovation or change in individual behavior. He calls for a collective reflection on the way we conceive production and consumption. On this land day, while everyone is called upon to think about their environmental impact, it may be time to adopt not only palliative measures but also to think of structural solutions that engage all the actors concerned.
The fight against plastic pollution, particularly that emanating from the fashion sector, requires a holistic approach. It must link individuals, communities, industries and governments to a common quest for sustainability. Far from being a niche issue, this question invites shared responsibility, essential to preserve our environment for future generations.