New Microplastic Filter
Makes World Debut
Copenhagen takes the lead in the fight against microplastics in sewer systems with the installation of an innovative new filter system from the Danish company BAIONYX on Frederiksberg Allé.
When we drive cars, few of us consider that our trips not only emit CO2 but also spread microplastics. Wear from the tires of cars, buses, and trucks releases microplastic particles that are washed into sewer systems by rainwater. From there, they often end up in nature, impacting ecosystems and groundwater. Until now, this form of pollution has been an almost invisible challenge in environmental discussions.
The Danish company BAIONYX is introducing a solution: a particle filter capable of retaining up to 97% of harmful particles (TSS – Total Suspended Solids) in sewers. The filter prevents these particles from reaching aquatic environments. The filter system, patented and produced by the German factory GKD in collaboration with BAIONYX, was developed at the Technical University of Berlin with support from the Audi Environmental Foundation. BAIONYX is responsible for implementing the solution in the Nordic countries.
On November 27, the filter was launched with the installation of the first system on Frederiksberg Allé.
“Few people realize how significant a challenge microplastics from car tires pose to our water environment. When rainwater washes microplastic particles into sewers, they often end up in nature, harming ecosystems. With this filter, we’re taking an important step toward a cleaner environment by addressing an overlooked but critical source of pollution. We are proud that Frederiksberg is the first city in Denmark to test this solution,” said Søren Dandanell Nielsen, founder and CEO of BAIONYX.
A Step Toward Cleaner Water
Frederiksberg Allé is a strategic location for the pilot project. This busy stretch of road sees approximately 5,000 cars daily, contributing around 650 grams of microplastic tire particles every day. By installing the filter, these particles can be captured and retained within the sewer system.
“Denmark is known as a frontrunner in sustainability, so it’s encouraging to see Frederiksberg Municipality and BAIONYX collaborating to install this filter system. It’s crucial that we protect our water resources from this form of pollution,” said Dr. Rüdiger Recknagel, managing director of Audi Environmental Foundation, which co-funded the development of the filter system.
The filter solution is the result of years of intensive research and testing, both in laboratories and the field. With 289 million vehicles in the EU, around 450,000 tons of microplastic tire particles are released annually, most of which ends up in aquatic environments. In Denmark alone, tire wear contributes over 7,000 tons of microplastics each year.
Respecting Mobility While Solving Environmental Problems
“At BAIONYX, it’s not about pointing fingers or dictating how people should live their lives. We understand that mobility and transportation are essential parts of everyday life. That’s why we focus on solving specific issues, like microplastics from tires, rather than trying to change habits or lifestyles. Our mission is to provide solutions that make a positive environmental impact without compromising people’s freedom or needs. At the same time, we are deeply committed to working with tire manufacturers, the automotive industry, and other companies to protect our most vital resource – clean drinking water,” said Søren Dandanell Nielsen, founder and CEO of BAIONYX.
