The NFWI Public Affairs team has been working in the All-Party Parliamentary Group to discuss potential policy solutions regarding microplastics.
They have had round table discussions with washing machine manufacturers, textile industries, academics, industry and retail representatives and environmental organisations to produce a six policy recommendation intended to stem the tide of microplastic fibre release into our waters.
This will be published soon and findings will be presented to Parliament ministers for discussion. It will be available on the Wi website for members to read after publication.
In the meantime I think we members need to do all we can to ‘stem the tide’. In the Spring of 2020 (lockdown), I discovered the EcoEgg detergent alternative. Apparently it has been around for years! I saw it as a ‘special buy’ in Aldi, and have been using it ever since. It was supposed to last up to fifty washes, but I went on using it well afterwards with good results.
I recently bought a refill pack of pellets from Amazon, as I haven’t seen the EcoEgg on sale anywhere else. I have found it to be super-efficient for most washing situations, though I still have to use stain remover products for stubborn marks.
The plastic egg has holes in it and is filled (half full) with mineral pellets. These activate once wet and roll around inside the egg to create a natural detergent that permeates the washing. It is very economical, as well as eco-friendly.
The initial pack with including the egg cost me under £5, however, the refill pellets cost the same from Amazon, who were selling the whole package for £10—prices ever going up!
If we can save that energy use as well as stemming the tide against pollution from microplastics, I think it’s worth it!
We’d love to know about other innovative ‘eco’ products you’ve tested, from bamboo toothbrushes to beeswax jar covers and shampoo alternatives. Maybe you shared idea within your WIs for Big Green Week?
Please let us know!