Innovation

The innovative microfiber filter solution is conveniently situated on the washing machine's door. This filter prevents the pollution by collecting as much as 93% of the released microfibers during each washing cycle. On an average annual base, this would be 110 pieces of 500ml bottles filled with microplastics.

This innovation is the first of its kind and Vestel is committed to and actively pursuing opportunities to expand the implementation of their technology. They are working on a plan to integrate the filter to existing washing machines in use to multiply its effect.

Moreover, Vestel's effective solution is showcasing the existence of microplastic pollution, which also raises awareness. Thanks to Vestel, official regulation by the EU that limits microplastic exposure is soon to be initiated.

Inspiration

The main motivation behind Vestel’s microplastic filtering washing machine project is driven by the urgency to address the pervasive issue of microplastic pollution, a problem that significantly impacts the health of humans, animals, and even plants.

Vestel is acutely aware of the detrimental effects of microplastics on the environment, ecosystems, and public health. They have a strong desire to contribute to a solution for this challenge. Their primary goal is to pave the way for a cleaner, safer, and healthier future for future generations. This overarching motivation serves as the guiding force behind Vestel’s project.

The project development phase was undoubtedly a challenging journey. Tackling a problem as multifaceted as microplastic pollution requires innovative thinking and dedication, and in practice they encountered numerous obstacles and complexities along the way. However, Vestel’s unwavering motivation and commitment to making a positive impact on the environment has enabled them to overcome these hurdles.

They approached each problem with a determination to find creative and forward-thinking solutions, all the while keeping the vision of a brighter, microplastic-free future in mind. It was Vestel’s collective passion and determination that fueled their progress, and it continues to drive them forward to further implementation of their successful microplastic filter project.

Barkın Elmas, Senior Design Architect at Vestel said: “As future-oriented individuals, we are motivated by the desire to leave a positive impact on the world. The urgency of global environmental challenges demands proactive solutions. Initiating a project focused on microplastics reduction aligns with our aspiration to be a responsible steward of the planet. We are driven by the vision of leaving a legacy of environmental consciousness, where our actions contribute to a sustainable and thriving planet long after my time.”

Overall impact

Unfortunately, up to 35% of total microplastics released into the environment result from washing machine cycles. These tiny plastic fragments find their way into the sea, where they can be ingested by marine organisms. Over time, the accumulation of microfibers in the tissues of these organisms can have dire consequences. This not only negatively effects the lifespan of marine creatures, but it also poses a risk to human health, as these contaminated organisms may end up on our dinner plates.

Vestel’s microfiber filter (used in the washing machine) captures 93% of the microplastics in every cycle of wash. The amount of microplastics reduced by a microfiber-filtered washing machine in one year is equivalent to 110 pieces of 500ml beverage bottles.

As Vestel produces 3.5 million washing machines, it makes an unimaginable impact. Furthermore, Vestel is dedicated to implement the solution to washing machines that are already in use in homes. Moreover, the awareness about microplastics that Vestel's innovation creates, will probably result in regulation that limits the emission of microplastics through products sold in Europe. Considering all these aspects, it can be said that Vestel made and continues to make a huge contribution to solving the microplastics problem.

Business benefit

Vestel showed its mission of creating a cleaner, safer, and healthier future for generations ahead with their innovation. This responsible act motivates the consumer to prefer Vestel products over of those other manufacturers. Therefore, it can be said that it ensures a comparative advantage for Vestel.

Additionally, they are ready for the upcoming regulation in Europe which will cause drastic costs to manufacturers that have not developed low microplastic emitting washing machines. While these manufacturers are trying to develop their products in limited time, Vestel can improve their washing machines in different aspects and keep them at front of the competition.

Social and environmental benefit

SDG 12 - Responsible Production and consumption

Although a microfiber filter leads to additional costs, Vestel chose to implement it as they care about marine and human life. Despite the need of cost reduction due to fierce competition in the appliances market, Vestel showed its dedication to preserve the marines with bearing the costs of the additional microfiber filter.

SDG 14 - Life Below Water

By reducing the amount of microplastics that are emitted to the oceans/seas, Vestel plays a huge role in marine life preservation.

SDG 9 - Industry Innovation and Infrastructure

With Vestel’s dedication and commitment towards the development of innovative products to combat the harmful effects on the environment, it can be said that they have shown their capabilities in innovation and developing an infrastructure to boost their sustainability vision.

Interviews

Nizami Barkın Elmas, Senior Design Architect

Abdulsamed Simsek, Product Manager

Caglar Ebeperi, R&D Executive