Innovation

The team behind Cleanr is making progress on multiple of the UN SDGs, and towards a better world through the use of a filter which can be affixed to the existing outlet hose on washing machines in order to filter out microplastics. This filter is planned on being implemented in France where it will likely be mandatory in 2025 for washing machine manufacturers to filter microplastics. Eventually, the filter could even be placed within the machine itself to meet the anticipated regulations.

The biodegradable filter allows current washing machines to push water through the filter by connecting the Cleanr product to the washing machine and monthly maintenance is slated to take the user less than two minutes to complete. This will allow users to reduce the amount of microplastics that get into the water supply from clothing, ensuring that we can try to reduce the amount of plastic that is presently entering the human body, which is 5 grams on average per week. This ensures good health and well being, Global Goal number 3, as the long term impact of these microplastics within the human body is unknown. The widespread use of the filters will also ensure Global Goal numbers 6, 12, and 14 (clean water and sanitation, responsible consumption and production, and life under water), as it will improve the cleanliness of the water for both humans and the animals that live in Earth's oceans, lakes and rivers.

Inspiration

Chip Miller, who studied biomedical engineering at Case Western Reserve University, planned on going to medical school. He said in our interview, "I always wanted to either make something to help people... or be a doctor and help diagnose and solve health problems." He also mentioned that he had his own personal inspiration as well as the other two co-founders. What they all shared, however, was how the company came to be. Miller, along with the other founders of Cleanr, heard a fact that the average person eats around five grams of microplastic every single week. After some research, they discovered that the largest source was washing machines. Being engineers, they decided to try and see if something could be done. Miller told us, "We took the end of a red solo cup, cut it off, and then put mesh on it." After attaching it to the washing machine, Miller said that what they found was "pretty disgusting." Trying to make a good filter became a hobby of the three founders before a company was even a thought.

Overall impact

Cleanr's innovative filters will, in the short term, allow companies to comply with upcoming regulations and make progress on meeting the UN's SDGs. These might not be the most impactful for everyday people, but progress needs to start somewhere.

The longer-term effects are the more tangible ones, as once the filters are implemented into more washing machines (and potentially other products) we will see an improvement in the percentage of water contaminated with microplastics. Cleaner water will lead to a better quality of life, and the evidence will be in the form of humans ingesting less and less plastic daily. Currently, 2.2 million tons of microfibers enter the oceans annually, and when Cleanr is more widespread hopefully it will help to curb the growth of this figure. All of these effects are contingent on the product getting to market, but with the progress the company has made already, and the team they have built, there isn’t much doubt that it’s just a matter of time.

Business benefit

Based on the interview with one of the founders of Cleanr, the innovation of microplastic filters for washing machines presents several benefits for the business. Firstly, the release of the technology at a large trade show in Berlin garnered significant attention from appliance manufacturers. The feedback received highlighted the unique approach Cleanr took toward addressing the issue of microplastics in washing machines. By introducing innovative technology, Cleanr differentiated itself in a market where regulatory changes are imminent, such as the legislation in France requiring microplastic filters in washing machines by 2025. This innovation positions Cleanr as a leader in providing solutions to meet emerging regulatory requirements, potentially opening avenues for partnerships with appliance manufacturers globally.

Furthermore, the innovation directly addresses a pressing environmental concern. With washing machines identified as the largest source of microplastics entering the environment, Cleanr's filters offer a tangible solution to mitigate this pollution. By capturing microplastics during the washing cycle, Cleanr contributes to reducing the environmental impact of plastic pollution, aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable practices. This environmental benefit enhances Cleanr's brand reputation and may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, thereby potentially increasing market demand for appliances equipped with Cleanr's technology.

Additionally, Cleanr's innovation reflects a sense of purpose beyond profit. The founders' motivation stemmed from a desire to address a critical environmental issue and contribute to creating cleaner, safer water for future generations. This sense of mission not only drives the company's goals but also fosters employee engagement and commitment. As Cleanr continues to innovate and expand its technology, its impact on business, society, and the environment is likely to grow, positioning the company as a catalyst for positive change in the fight against plastic pollution.

Social and environmental benefit

Washing machines are a significant source of microplastics entering the environment, with clothes shedding tiny plastic fibers during washing. Cleanr's filters capture these microplastics, preventing them from entering water bodies and ecosystems. This helps in reducing the overall pollution caused by microplastics, which can have detrimental effects on marine life and human health. The removal of microplastics from washing machine effluent helps in safeguarding public health. Microplastics have been found in various human tissues and organs, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. Cleanr's filters address this issue by intercepting microplastics before they can contaminate water sources and enter the food chain, thereby mitigating potential health risks associated with microplastic ingestion.

Cleanr's technology aligns with upcoming legislation, such as the requirement in France for all washing machines to have microplastic filters by 2025. By providing a solution that meets regulatory standards, Cleanr contributes to environmental protection and supports global efforts to combat plastic pollution.

Interview

Chip Miller, COO/Co-Founder