What they do
Plastic Soup Foundation is a Netherlands-based organization focused specifically on microplastic pollution. Their programs include the Beat the Microbead app (which lets consumers scan personal care products for hidden microplastics), research campaigns on synthetic textile shedding, and advocacy for legislation banning intentionally added microplastics. The organization has published research linking microplastic exposure to human health impacts and works with EU regulators on REACH restrictions.
Why they matter
While most ocean plastic campaigns focus on visible debris, Plastic Soup Foundation targets the invisible threat: microplastics. Their Beat the Microbead app has been downloaded over 500,000 times and directly influenced reformulation decisions by cosmetics companies. Their advocacy contributed to the EU's 2023 REACH restriction on intentionally added microplastics, one of the most significant regulatory actions on plastic pollution to date.
How to support
Download the Beat the Microbead app to check your personal care products. Install a microfiber-catching filter on your washing machine. Donate to support their research and policy advocacy. Share their research on social media to raise awareness of microplastic health impacts.
Key project to explore
The Beat the Microbead campaign, which created a global database of personal care products containing microplastic ingredients. The app has been downloaded 500,000+ times, and the campaign directly contributed to microplastic bans in cosmetics in 15+ countries.