By Timothy Page

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020, face masks have become an essential part of our daily lives, helping to curb the spread of the virus, or at least engage in a bit of antiviral mummery. However, their widespread use has created an unprecedented environmental challenge that continues to affect ecosystems worldwide.

The numbers are staggering. According to Prata et al. (2020), approximately 129 billion face masks were being used globally each month during the height of the pandemic. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2020) reported that this translates to roughly 3 million masks being disposed of every minute.

Most disposable masks are made from polypropylene, a type of plastic that can take up to 450 years to decompose fully (Dharmaraj et al., 2021). These masks typically contain multiple layers of this material, along with metal nose bridges and elastic ear loops, making them particularly problematic for waste management systems.

Marine ecosystems have been hit particularly hard. A report by OceansAsia (2020) estimated that more than 1.56 billion face masks entered our oceans in 2020 alone. These masks break down into microplastics, which are then ingested by marine life. Dharmaraj et al. (2021) found that masks exposed to water can release heavy metals and plastic fibers within hours, potentially poisoning marine organisms.

The elastic straps on masks pose a specific threat to wildlife. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, as cited in Dharmaraj et al. (2021), has reported numerous incidents of birds and marine animals becoming entangled in mask straps. In one notable case documented by OceansAsia (2020), researchers found a dead pufferfish in Brazil entangled in a face mask, highlighting the direct impact on marine life.

Traditional recycling facilities aren’t equipped to handle disposable masks due to their mixed material composition and potential biohazard risks. According to the World Bank (2021), most used masks end up in landfills or are incorrectly disposed of, leading to increased environmental pollution.

Environmental organizations and researchers are working on several solutions. Prata et al. (2020) suggest three key approaches:

1. Development of biodegradable masks using materials like hemp and cotton
2. Implementation of specialized recycling programs for PPE waste
3. Introduction of mask collection points in healthcare facilities

The environmental impact of disposable masks serves as a stark reminder of how emergency responses can have long-lasting environmental consequences. As we continue to deal with public health challenges, finding sustainable alternatives to traditional disposable masks remains crucial.

References:

Prata, J. C., et al. (2020). “COVID-19 Pandemic Repercussions on the Use and Management of Plastics.” Environmental Science & Technology, 54(13), 7760-7765.

UNEP. (2020). “Waste Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic: From Response to Recovery.”

OceansAsia. (2020). “Masks on the Beach: The Impact of COVID-19 on Marine Plastic Pollution.”

Dharmaraj, S., et al. (2021). “The COVID-19 pandemic face mask waste: A blooming threat to the marine environment.” Chemosphere, 272, 129601.

World Bank. (2021). “What a Waste 2.0: A Global Snapshot of Solid Waste Management to 2050.”