The 5 Gyres Institute

SCIENCE Our 15 years of research on ocean and terrestrial plastics leads us to focus on specific sources, or sectors, that generate plastic pollution to create more effective solutions. From microfibers and plastic pellets to single-use packaging, there are many unique sources of plastic pollution. By leading research around key sectors and materials, we can design targeted, effective interventions that reduce the harmful impacts of plastic pollution.2025 Research Highlights: - Vietnam Marine Debris - To better understand coastal pollution pathways, Dr. Victoria Fulfer tracked marine debris in Nha Trang, Vietnam, documenting nearly 74,000 items over a four-month time series. This work gives insights into the many complexities influencing shoreline debris deposition and removal, and emphasizes that beach cleanups cannot be the only mitigation solution. - Microfibers & Rainbow Trout - Dr. Lisa Erdle tested the impact of different microfiber types (cotton and polyester), with varying chemical additives, on rainbow trout. The results show that all microfibers - not just synthetic - should be considered when developing solution.- Microplastics on the PCT - This study, led by 5 Gyres Ambassadors Tori McGruer and Macy Gustavus, surveyed trash along the entire 4,270 km Pacific Crest Trail and estimated that 53,000 pieces were present. Targeted waste management in high-impact locations and improved gear design could reduce waste in these wilderness areas. - Plastic Mangroves in Honduras - 5 Gyres Ambassador Zara Zuniga-Lopez surveyed four mangrove sites in Honduras, finding 3,417 items in just 500 square meters - almost 99% of which were plastic. A deceased crocodile nearby was found with 62 pieces of litter in its gut. This research shows that mangroves act as a sink for plastic pollution, putting ecosystems and wildlife at risk. Science at the Global Plastics Treaty: Honest Brokers and the Merchants of Doubt 5 Gyres' Co-Founder & Scientist, Dr. Marcus Eriksen, attended what was meant to be the final Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland. While the treaty itself was not agreed upon, due to the aggressive efforts of some of the world's strongest petrochemical states, two of the three legs required for an effective treaty are now in place: political will of the 75-nation High Ambition Coalition, and a strong text. According to Marcus, there is hope on the horizon that these ambitious countries can advance negotiations beyond UNEP through a coalition of the willing, and 5 Gyres will stand ready to support science in every way we can.Plastic Air: Microfibers & TextilesHot Out of the Dryer: Recently Published ResearchOur two-part "Plastic Air" study focused on airborne microfibers - a major source of microplastic pollution. These tiny, thread-like particles that shed from textiles can easily become airborne and travel long distances, making them especially relevant to human exposure. We evaluated the significance of emissions from commercial dryers, finding that a single laundromat can release up to 7.2 trillion microfibers into the air each year, with city-wide emissions reaching 1.1 quadrillion microfibers annually. Our research established that dryers are a significant and overlooked source of airborne microfiber pollution, so the next step was to evaluate potential solutions. We found that some secondary dryer filtration systems can capture up to 80% of microfibers before they enter the air. Filtration presents a viable mitigation strategy to reduce microfiber emissions and protect environmental and human health.Implementing Upstream Solutions Filtration alone won't solve microfiber pollution, and change is needed further upstream. Our guide, Reducing Microfiber Pollution: An Industry Playbook, offers accessible, general guidelines to help brands reduce microfiber emissions at every step of the supply chain. The series includes three audience-specific guides - Design Solutions, Sourcing Practices, and Manufacturing Interventions - and serves as a valuable resource for textile companies to take action today.

ADVOCACY As one of the oldest and most established organizations focused on microplastic pollution research, 5 Gyres is at the forefront of driving impactful policies to reduce harm from plastic pollution. Our policy campaigns are led by a team of seasoned experts with networks in local and national decision-making bodies, and informed by research from our in-house science team and other leading institutions. We advocate for solutions to address microplastic pollution and plastic pollution in parks and protected areas, support other comprehensive legislation, and defend against bad plastics policies.Microplastic-Free US With growing awareness and momentum around microplastic pollution, the time to take action is now-before its impact on our environment and public health becomes irreversible. In 2025, we launched a national advocacy campaign, Microplastic-Free US, to advance policy measures addressing microplastic pollution in the United States. Over 500 individuals have joined us in reaching out to our elected officials, demanding action that safeguards environmental and human health.A nationwide poll to better understand public perception around microplastics solidified that we're on the right track. Nearly 80% of respondents agreed that microplastics pose a threat to both environmental and human health, and immediate action is needed. The results showed strong bipartisan support for policies aimed at preventing or reducing microplastic pollution, especially when it concerns human health. We are continuing to rally signatures, amplify voices, and urge our elected officials to protect our communities from this invisible threat.Policy Progress in 2025 - California's AB 823, which would have banned plastic microbeads in personal care and cleaning products, made it to Governor Newsom's desk before being vetoed - The Fighting Fibers Act of 2025 was reintroduced in Congress, which would require new washing machines to have a microfiber filtration system - The Microplastics Safety Act, which would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study on the human health impacts of exposure to microplastics in food and water, was introduced in Congress with bipartisan support - The Farewell to Foam Act was introduced, which would prohibit food ware accessories, packing peanuts, and disposable coolers made from expanded polystyrene - The Reducing Waste in National Park Act was reintroduced, which would ban the sale of single-use plastics in U.S. national parks - The REUSE Act, which would direct the EPA to conduct a feasibility study on reuse and refill systems in different sectors, had a bipartisan introduction and passed the US Senate Lobby Days are a crucial time for constituents, scientists, and NGOs to meet with their elected officials and advocate for issues that matter most to them. 5 Gyres invited Ambassadors and partners to join us at California Ocean Day in Sacramento and Capitol Hill Ocean Week in Washington, D.C. this year. It was inspiring to see our most dedicated advocates speaking on behalf of our mission!