The Outdoor Microfibre Consortium Limited, now operating as The Microfibre Consortium Limited (TMC), is a non-profit, science-led organization founded in the UK in October 2018. TMC convenes a global community of brands, retailers, manufacturers, and research institutions committed to mitigating microfibre pollution released from textiles. Its overarching mission is to work towards zero impact from textile fibre fragmentation on the natural environment by 2030. TMC addresses the complex issue of microfibre shedding through a holistic and data-driven approach that links rigorous scientific research with real-world supply chain and design practices.
TMC’s activities range from developing standardized scientific methods for quantifying fibre loss (notably, the TMC Test Method) to building robust cross-industry data infrastructures like the Microfibre Data Portal. This portal compiles the world’s largest dataset on fibre fragmentation, supporting industry-wide root-cause analysis. TMC prioritizes empowering textile sector stakeholders by providing actionable insights, industry-informed research, and tools to bring about meaningful change in materials, manufacturing, and product design.
Collaboration lies at TMC’s core. The consortium works extensively with academic institutes—especially the University of Leeds—and industry groups, including the European Outdoor Group. TMC has established a “Microfibre 2030 Commitment” supported by a growing number of globally recognized apparel and textile companies, aiming at a cross-industry strategy to decrease fibre release at scale. As a recognized lobbying entity in the EU, TMC has directly contributed to policy deliberations, most notably around the Product Environmental Footprint and broader sustainable textiles regulation in Europe.
Governance at TMC embraces transparency and diverse expertise. The consortium’s team comprises specialists in strategy, fibre research, stakeholder relations, organizational operations, and scientific data analysis. TMC has also set up periodic committees and advisory groups to feed science and industry knowledge into regulatory frameworks. Its policy and lobbying work aims to influence regulatory development and harmonize standards throughout the textile sector.
Since its inception, TMC has developed partnerships across the international textile ecosystem and regularly engages in public and private meetings with policymakers, building a network of influential industry voices unified in their commitment to sustainability. Its lobbying, research, and advocacy are guided by the principle that collective action and evidence-based decision-making pave the way for effective environmental protection.
