How Matter is engineering solutions to the global microplastics crisis

Matter is a Bristol-based engineering company developing pioneering filtration solutions designed to stop microplastics from entering the natural environment. Founded eight years ago by Adam Root, the company has grown from a small start-up into a 40-person team delivering world-leading innovation across the laundry and textile sectors.

Matter combines research, product development and a growing intellectual property portfolio to tackle one of the planet’s most pervasive pollution challenges, microfibre pollution.

The Growth Hub team sat down with Head of Engineering, Reuben Kettle Aiers to understand more.

The challenge

Over the last 10 years, microplastics have rapidly become a massive global environmental and human health concern. When Matter first began its journey, public awareness was limited, but scientific understanding has since revealed the scale of the global problem.

Microplastics are found everywhere - from the summit of Everest to the depths of the Mariana Trench. More alarming still, studies show they are present in human organs including the brain, heart and even in unborn children.

These particles don’t just persist physically, they can also carry harmful chemicals, such as plasticisers and fire retardants, into ecosystems and the human body. Laundry is one of the largest contributors to this invisible pollution, with billions of microscopic fibres released during washing cycles - most of which usually pass directly into water systems.

Consumer side

Matter’s consumer laundry filter allows users not only to prevent microfibres from entering waterways but also to see the volume of pollution normally washed away unnoticed. The viewing window offers a powerful moment of awareness - transforming invisible waste into something tangible.

Industrial side

On the industrial side, Matter has been developing large-scale filtration systems capable of capturing microplastics at mass-production levels. These solutions require deep engineering expertise, rigorous testing and significant investment.

The Growth Hub grants that were used

Business Innovation Fund Grant

This grant enabled Matter to carry out advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations - an essential step when transitioning from small-scale consumer products to industrial-grade filtration.

Industrial prototyping can be expensive and time-consuming; CFD simulations allowed the team to validate and optimise designs before manufacturing, cutting both cost and risk.

Intellectual Property for Growth Grant

With this support, Matter conducted a full IP audit with its patent attorneys. The audit assessed the company’s existing patent portfolio and uncovered opportunities to strengthen and expand their IP strategy - critical for a technology company scaling internationally.
These grants, paired with close collaboration with Growth Hub advisors, provided tailored guidance, signposting and ongoing support aligned to Matter’s product development journey.

Man speaking in front of crowd, screen reads

Matter’s growing impact and innovation led to international recognition - most notably being named a finalist for The Earthshot Prize. The platform has opened new doors, partnerships and momentum for the business as it continues its mission.

The business is now moving into its most transformative and exciting phase. In 2026, the company will be releasing its large-scale textile filtration systems into factories worldwide, capturing microfibres at industrial volumes and driving substantial environmental impact.

With a strengthened engineering capability, a growing operational footprint and increased backing through major global recognition, Matter is scaling towards an international supply chain delivering solutions at the scale the problem demands.

For Matter, the future is focused on expansion, impact and continuing to lead the fight against microplastic pollution - turning once-invisible plastic waste into visible change.