Microplastics Originating from Paints and Synthetic Textile Materials

There is continued growth in paints and synthetic textile materials production and consumption due to expanded use of paints in different applications, population growth and fast fashion trends. Paints and synthetic textile materials are some of the major sources of microplastics. The major sources of microplastics originating from paints are marine paints, road markings, architectural paints, and spray painting. Major contributing factors in the release of microplastics from paints to the environment are paint production processes, weathering and abrasion, paint spilling, residual paints on paint application tools and storage containers, paint end of life (EoL) disposal, and paint applicator’s expertise. In the context of synthetic textile materials, major emissions of the microplastics occur during the production processes of the synthetic textile materials, during use and laundering, washing conditions and drying. Studying the role and influence of paints and synthetic textile materials in the generation of microplastics is critical. It helps in coming up with mitigatory measures to reduce the generation of microplastics from paints and synthetic textile materials and hence promotion of sustainability. Devising a holistic approach to research and development of green chemistry and green manufacturing processes in the production of paints and synthetic textile materials is one of the mitigatory measures. Also, developing policies and legislation on wastewater treatment systems for all responsible stakeholders and introducing legislation on do-ityourself (DIY) painting activities could help in reducing the generation of microplastics from paints and synthetic textile materials.