Washing Machine Filtration

Did you know that microfibers (tiny thread-like pieces of plastic) shed from your synthetic clothing every time you do laundry?

These fibers go down the drain and enter the city's wastewater system. Some are removed at treatment plants, but many pass through and end up in our rivers and lakes—polluting our ecosystem and harming fish and other aquatic life.

EcoSuperior is excited to announce a new research project with the Métis Nation of Ontario and Lakehead University. Together, we want to help protect our local waterways from harmful microfibers that come from our washing machines.

We are looking for City of Thunder Bay residents to participate in the project by installing a free washing machine filter and collecting the material from their filters.
In the first six months, project participants will be asked to:

  • Collect material from the washing machine filter in a Ziploc bag
  • Weigh and photograph the sample
  • Store the samples in your freezer
  • Fill out an online form to submit sample weight, photos, and information about laundry habits (e.g. # of laundry loads, temperature settings, etc.)

We will arrange to pick up the samples, or you can drop them off at EcoSuperior.
For the last six months, you will only need to weigh the sample and fill out an online form. All supplies will be provided.
 

To take part in this project, you must:
  • Live in Thunder Bay and be connected to city wastewater
  • Own your home or have permission from the homeowner
  • Install the filter on your own and by the date we agree on (installation videos below)
  • Collect samples, weigh them, and store them in your freezer.                                             

Note: Half of the filters will go to Métis households. If you are a Métis Nation of Ontario citizen, your citizenship number will be required.

*Before you apply:
Watch the installation videos Video 1 and Video 2

See how to clean your filter here.

Note that applications will be reviewed based on the eligibility criteria listed above. If you are selected, you will be contacted by email. Please reach out to us at litterfreelakes@ecosuperior.org if you have any questions regarding the washing machine filter project.