PlanetCare 2.0: The Next Step in Fighting Microplastic Pollution from Washing Machines

In recent years, the world has awakened to the alarming issue of microplastic pollution, particularly from our daily activities like washing clothes in machines. One pioneering company from Slovenia, PlanetCare, has been championing this cause for years. Today, PlanetCare has unveiled its second-generation external filter, taking a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of washing machines.

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The amount of synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic in our wardrobes has led to a hidden environmental crisis. As we wash these fabrics, tiny fibers, known as microplastics, break free and are discharged into the environment. Shockingly, studies have revealed that washing machines are responsible for approximately 35% of microplastics in the world’s oceans. Researchers from Plymouth University discovered that a single wash can release over 700,000 minuscule acrylic particles into the ecosystem.

Mojca Zupan, a corporate lawyer, was deeply disturbed by these findings. In response, she took a bold step by quitting her job and founding PlanetCare. Initially, the company sought to convince washing machine manufacturers to install filters within their appliances. However, resistance from the industry led Zupan and her team to develop an external microfiber filter. Launched in 2020, this innovative solution has already garnered over 7,000 active users.

PlanetCare’s external microfiber filter is designed to intercept microplastics at their source – your washing machine. It is a simple yet effective system: the wastewater pipe from the washing machine is connected to the filter housing, with an output pipe leading to the drain. Inside the filter, a cartridge captures the microfibers released during a washing cycle. After 15 to 20 loads, the cartridge is easily removed and replaced with a fresh one.

The sustainability factor is further emphasized as users send the spent cartridge back to PlanetCare for cleaning and replacement. The company offers a subscription service, ensuring a steady supply of fresh cartridges. Meanwhile, the trapped microfibers are collected for responsible recycling.

The recently unveiled PlanetCare 2.0 builds upon the success of its predecessor. This next-gen filter continues to combat microplastic Pollution effectively but with several significant improvements. Notably, it boasts the capability to capture an impressive 98% of microfibers, even those as small as 10 microns in length, from washing machine wastewater. Additionally, the number of loads per cartridge has been increased to 30 or more.

Perhaps most importantly, PlanetCare 2.0 is made entirely from recycled plastic and adheres to passive design principles, requiring no power or electronic components. This ensures that there will never be any batteries or equipment to dispose of, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability.

The PlanetCare External Microfiber Filter 2.0 is set to be available for purchase in December, with a small starter kit priced at $96 and an XL starter kit at $193. Existing customers can also upgrade to the new design for just $32. While there is no specific information on subscription costs or availability for US customers, the current EU-only scheme is priced at €7.50 per month.

In addition to its groundbreaking filter, PlanetCare has also announced an upcoming collaboration with a sustainable furniture producer. This partnership aims to utilize the collected fibers and filtering medium in the creation of new eco-friendly products, further emphasizing the circular economy and responsible resource management.

You can find out more about PlanetCare and their products here.

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