Scaling Sustainability: How Kungsbacka Municipality’s Technical Services Department is confronting Microplastics and Water Waste with Mimbly
Sandra Einhaus- Environmental Engineer/ Chemical Coach from the Department of Technical Services at Kunsgsbacka Municipality with Mimbly’s Account Manager, Helena Dahlström
For public sector leaders, the challenge of "responsible laundry" isn't just about clean mop-pads and textiles, it’s about the invisible environmental footprint left behind. When a municipality washes tons of synthetic textiles and workwear annually, the volume of microplastics and water waste can be staggering.
Kungsbacka Municipality’s Technical Services Department decided they weren't okay with that footprint. They recognized a clear mandate: laundry operations should not come at the expense of local Swedish waterways.
By partnering with Mimbly and integrating the Mimbox, the department has transformed it’s laundry facility into a model of circular water management.
High-Volume Laundry, High-Impact Waste
Municipal laundry facilities pose a risk for microplastic pollution. Traditional industrial washers lack the filtration needed to catch microscopic synthetic fibers, which then flow directly into the ocean. Additionally, the sheer volume of water required for these operations creates a strain on local resources.
The Mimbox Integration
Kungsbacka’s Technical Service Department didn't just want a filter; they wanted a system. The Mimbox was installed to support the department in two major areas:
Microplastic Capture: Preventing synthetic fibers from entering the ecosystem at the source.
Water Recycling: Reducing total consumption by treating and reusing water across their operations.
Why Maintenance Equals Performance
Innovation only works if it’s embraced by the people on the ground. During a recent visit to the Kungsbacka facility “teknikens hus” , Sandra Einhaus, Environmental Engineer and Chemical Coach, highlighted that the success of the Mimbox is a team effort. By installing the Mimbox, the department has been able to:
“save resources and prevent microplastics from being released. By maintaining the Mimbox properly (which our cleaning staff ensures), we achieve excellent savings results.”— Sandra Einhaus, Environmental Engineer
This underscores a vital truth in clean-tech: Technology provides the potential, but consistent maintenance unlocks the ROI.
A Blueprint for Other Municipalities
The collaboration between Mimbly and Kungsbacka serves as a true sustainability partnership. It moves beyond a one-time installation and into a long-term strategy for resource conservation.
As we continue to support Kungsbacka Municipality’s Technical Services Departmenton this journey, we are proving that with the right technology and a dedicated team, responsible laundry becomes a reality and not just a goal.