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Washing machines are one of the greatest inventions of the last few centuries. They have made people’s life easier around the world. Unfortunately, washing machines also contribute to microplastics flowing into the oceans. That is why the washing machine manufacturer, Samsung, and the outdoors-wear company, Patagonia, are working together to make a change.

For Patagonia, the issue of microplastics is one that has been on their minds for years. Though iconic, the company’s woolen jackets and pullover s release many microfibers. As for Samsung, new regulations throughout the world have forced many producers to start thinking about ways they can help reduce the number of microplastics. There are currently more than 14 million tons of microplastics floating in the oceans. Though people primarily think of things such as plastic bottles and fishing line, thousands of microplastics are released down the drain (下水道) with every laundry load.

The issue is a sort of catch-22. On the one hand, in order to reduce energy costs, manufacturers try to make their machines more efficient. These machines use hotter water and are designed to create more friction between the clothing in the machine. However, both of these things lead to the release of more microplastics. So, using Patagonia clothes as test cases, Samsung came up with a two-fold solution: One is a technology called Eco-bubbles that create s a larger amount of bubbles to help wash clothing more easily, and the other is a water purifier that can filter out more microplastics.

The collaboration (合作) between the two companies is proof of something urgent. On one hand, well-constructed and durable clothing is a weapon in the fight against fast fashion. On the other hand, the material used to make those clothing and the way they are washed can also add pollutants to the environment. The same goes for washing machines. The fight against climate change requires creative thinking and learning how to attack a problem from many angles, which will certainly lead to even more creative and fruitful collaboration.