On the Frontline in the Fight Against Microplastics: The SUMMIT Project

02/04/2025

We are thrilled to announce our participation in a cutting-edge research project—an initiative of great environmental and technological significance, funded by the Piedmont Region.

This project, called SUMMIT (SUstainable Mitigation of Microplastics In Textile), places us at the forefront of a crucial challenge: reducing pollution caused by fibrous microplastics (MPf) released from synthetic fabrics during domestic washing. As we know, these harmful substances pose a serious threat to our ecosystems.

A significant portion of these particles, released from synthetic garments during washing, bypass wastewater treatment systems and end up contaminating rivers, seas, and oceans. The European Commission itself has recognized the urgency of addressing this issue, making it a priority in the Strategy for a Circular and Sustainable Textile Sector, with alarming data indicating that 40,000 tons of synthetic fibers are released into wastewater from washing machines every year.

A Synergistic and Innovative Approach The SUMMIT project stands out for its synergistic approach: thanks to the participation of companies representing the entire textile supply chain—from spinning to garment manufacturing—the issue is tackled in an integrated manner, in collaboration with outstanding partners such as Tessitura Pertile S.r.l., Tintoria Finissaggio 2000 S.r.l., Politecnico di Torino DISAT, and CNR - STIIMA.

One of the initiative's key objectives is to define eco-design criteria to minimize future MPf release, requiring a rethinking and optimization of production processes to reduce environmental impact from the outset.

Additionally, the project aims to develop an "anti-release" surface treatment, which can be applied during spinning or finishing to mitigate the release of these harmful substances, contributing to a more sustainable and long-lasting solution. For us, this project represents a concrete opportunity to actively contribute to research and the development of innovative solutions.

We are fully aware of our responsibility toward the environment and are committed to leveraging our expertise and experience to help build a cleaner and more sustainable future for the textile industry.