In a partnership that seems a little out there, yet makes total sense, Samsung and Patagonia are nearly ready to release laundry machines that combat microplastics. Early last year, the two companies announced that they would begin developing the technology.

For the most part, many companies have focused their efforts on water usage, which is an important piece in the sustainability battle. But what many may not realize is when synthetic textiles such as denim, nylon, polyester, and others are washed, microplastics from those garments end up in the waterways.

Even the delicate cycle isn’t immune to this.

According to a press release from Fashion United, “The release of microplastics from synthetic clothes is mainly caused by the mechanical and chemical stresses that fabrics undergo during a washing process in a laundry machine, which lead to the detachment of microfibers from the yarns that constitute the textile.”

Thus, the need for the new laundry technology. Samsung released a statement saying the machines are almost ready, with an expected release set for later this year.

Techcrunch reports that Samsung will roll out two new washing machines with a few features that will accomplish this goal: a plastic-catching filter that works with any washer and a specialized wash cycle that halves microplastic pollution, according to a Samsung-funded study.

This comes on the heels of other products that are currently in use to help combat microplastic pollution, such as protective laundry bags. Companies such as Everywhere Apparel also fight the battle by manufacturing apparel out of recycled cotton and utilizing a closed-loop system.

To further enhance the technology, the tech giant has paired with Patagonia. Samsung has said in a statement that the goal is to reduce micro plastics by up to 54%. As updates are provided, we’ll be sure to share.