A world-first hub tackling microplastic pollution
The Cleaner Seas Group, based in Bude, has received investment from the Good Growth Programme to create a groundbreaking facility that’s set to transform how we prevent microplastic pollution from entering the environment. This has supported the development of the world’s first Microfibre Filter Hub, a Microplastic Recycling Lab, and a Return + Recycle Centre.
These facilities will help prevent up to 86 tonnes of microfibres from entering the ocean every year, positioning Cornwall as a global leader in marine environmental innovation.
“The Good Growth Programme has supported Cleaner Seas Group in understanding what we can do with microfibre pollution.”
– Dave Miller, CEO Cleaner Seas Group
Fibres from domestic, commercial and industrial washing machine filters can now be sent and processed at the new facility to be recycled. The technology has already been adopted at scale within the travel sector. In 2024, Marella Cruises, part of the TUI Group, became the first cruise line to fit microfibre filters across its entire fleet.
They are now working with sectors including the space industry, car manufacturers, shipping companies and others to understand how the fibres can be used be used to create advanced materials.
This project is made possible thanks to a £927,675 investment from the Good Growth Programme funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.