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New equipment in laundry rooms reduces microplastics and saves water
Stångåstaden is testing a new type of equipment for communal laundry rooms that reduces the release of microplastics and conserves water. The equipment is connected to the washing machine, purifies the water after washing, and reintroduces the clean water into the washing process. This equipment not only saves water but also cleans the water from microplastics, contributing to a reduction in the proportion of microplastics in wastewater.
The installation of the equipment, known as Mimbox from the company Mimbly, is a step in our effort to create a sustainable living environment. By installing this equipment, we can both reduce water consumption and decrease the proportion of microplastics in wastewater. Tenants can do their laundry just as they always have and won’t notice any difference – but it makes a difference for the environment.
Currently, we are conducting a pilot study in one of our student areas to evaluate the technology. Testing this innovative technology is part of our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and creating a more sustainable living environment for our tenants!
How it works:
- The actual washing process happens just like before, but instead of the water being discharged into the drain, it is filtered in the Mimbox. The purity of the water is also analyzed in the Mimbox to determine if it can be reused.
- If the water is too dirty, it is sent out into the drain. However, it has already been cleansed of microplastics.
- If the water is sufficiently clean, it is saved and further purified until the washing machines require water again.
- When the washing machine needs water, the preheated water is pumped back instead of drawing new water from the tap.
- This makes the washing process more environmentally friendly while delivering the same washing results as before.
- Microplastics in the water are collected in a filter that is emptied periodically.
Microplastics
Microplastics are small but harmful plastic particles that pollute the environment and originate from various sources, including beauty products, urban dust, and degraded particles from plastic items. Microplastics also come from synthetic textiles. Every time these textiles are washed, millions of synthetic fibers (microplastics) are released from our washing machines into watercourses and oceans.
