INSIGHTS / News

Scale-Up member Matter Industries has been working on the world’s first sustainable, long-lasting washing machine microfibre filter. The sustainable tech company has a keen eye for innovative, pioneering solutions for the capturing, harvesting, and recycling of microplastics, and now, it has taken its latest innovation to the crowdfunding stage.

With as many as 700,000 microfibres released into the ecosystem after every laundry cycle, Matter Industries’ new product, Gulp, will help to stop microplastic pollution at its source. Its technology captures up to 90% of the microfibres shed in each cycle, preventing these damaging microplastics from entering our waterways.

The project began back in 2017 and has since been through rigorous prototype development and testing with the University of Glasgow, as well as home trials to determine the practicalities of the freestanding device. Now in its crowdfunding stage, raised funds will be used to manufacture Gulp ahead of market release in July 2023.

It originally sought £10,000 worth of funding to take the product to market, but the campaign has now exceeded nearly £90,000, with three weeks still remaining on the Kickstarter clock.

Gulp connects directly through the washing machine’s hose, efficiently filtering the microplastics from the water. Once full, a light on the front of the device illuminates to alert users to the fact that it needs emptying, and then the cycle begins again. The microfibres collected through Gulp can be sent back to Matter, where they will study and recycle these microplastics to fully close the loop.

Compared to existing microplastic filters already on the market, Gulp’s technology offers a convenient and sustainable alternative. Previous filters have required regular replacement, often featuring disposable components as they become worn out and congested over time. Gulp requires no replacement filters, and therefore no additional costs to the consumer.

Adam Root, Founder and CEO of Matter, says:

“Gulp is about creating a long-term solution for one of the biggest challenges of our time. Gulp is a sustainable, scalable piece of technology that empowers people to become part of the solution and make a real difference. It’s easy to install and use, and it’s designed to fit washing machines across Europe in millions of homes.

We are building the future we want to see, a UK-manufactured product, a full circular model for the material captured, spare parts available and end-of-life recycling. This product will be the pinnacle of sustainable design”.

Take a look at their Kickstarter campaign for further information and insights. Early supporters will receive a discounted price and receive their product in September 2023. View the campaign here.