Samsung launches "washing machine companion" to reduce microplastic pollution

CTOnews.com June 13 news, Samsung Electronics recently released a new washing machine external filter, called "Less Microfiber," designed to significantly reduce the plastic microfiber emissions generated during the washing process.

CTOnews.com learned from Samsung's website that the filter can intercept up to 98% of microplastics in laundry detergent and prevent them from entering the ocean, which is equivalent to reducing the emissions of 32 500 ml plastic bottles per year (assuming four times a week). The filter is designed to fit into standard washing machines. In designing the filter, Samsung drew on the experience of clothing manufacturer Patagonia and global marine conservation organization Ocean Wise.

Samsung said the filter was a further improvement on the "microplastic reduction" laundry model introduced last year. The model uses Samsung's proprietary Ecobubble technology to reduce microplastic shedding by 54%. The new filter goes a step further and can intercept microplastics at the source to protect the marine environment.

Samsung's "microplastic reduction" filter is made from recycled plastic. It is durable and easy to maintain. Its blades use 65-70 micron wide mesh to catch microplastic, then guide and compress it to one side. Users can clean it about once a month. In addition, users can check the capacity level and cleaning time of the filter through the SmartThings app.

The filter is currently available in South Korea and the UK, and is expected to launch in other countries in the third quarter.