It’s undeniable that COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, will continue to impact our daily lives for the foreseeable future. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most effective ways to mitigate spread include frequent hand washing, maintaining social distance, and, perhaps most importantly, wearing masks in public.
As mask-wearing becomes integral to our daily habits, it is important to consider the environmental consequences. A study published in the journal Environment, Science & Technology found that globally, an astonishing 129 billion face masks and 65 billion gloves are disposed of each month.
Nick Mallos, a senior director at Ocean Conservancy, remarked during an interview with CNN that these statistics are “staggering,” highlighting the environmental threat posed by single-use plastic personal protective equipment (PPE) once it is discarded.
Here’s everything you should know about masks and which choices will be best for you and the planet.
Why is Mask-Wearing Essential?
COVID-19 primarily spreads through airborne respiratory droplets. These are tiny particles expelled from our mouths during activities like talking, laughing, singing, sneezing, or coughing.
As individuals can be asymptomatic carriers, it’s crucial to wear masks in public, especially where maintaining a distance of at least six feet (2 meters) might be difficult. This practice safeguards those around us and minimizes potential transmission.
Although wearing a mask has become standard practice, it’s even more important in confined indoor spaces such as stores, public transport, and workplaces, which are highly susceptible to virus spread.
Since the onset of the pandemic, the recommendations and regulations regarding mask-wearing have sparked debates in various regions. While masks can be uncomfortable—particularly during hot summer days—they are essential in our fight against COVID-19. Health officials stress that, aside from very young children and individuals who have difficulty breathing, everyone else should wear a mask to help reduce the spread of the virus.
Varieties of Masks
Surgical and N-95 masks are primarily designated for healthcare professionals to protect themselves and their patients and are not typically recommended for public use, except for those caring for individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.
The most widely used facial coverings by the public are disposable non-medical masks, designed to prevent droplet transmission by forming a physical barrier over the mouth and nose. However, these masks are intended for single use and should be discarded after a day’s wear to limit ongoing exposure to germs acquired from handling them.
Opt for Reusable Masks!
Despite the convenience and low cost of disposable masks, considering the environmental impact may lead you to choose differently. In May, the French nonprofit Opération Mer Propre (Operation Clean Sea), which focuses on ocean cleanliness, highlighted the detrimental effects of COVID-19 prevention measures. Numerous gloves, hand sanitizer containers, and surgical masks were discovered littering the Côte d’Azur following the relaxation of lockdowns.
The issue of plastic pollution exacerbated by COVID-19 has caught the attention of the United Nations, which is advocating for global efforts to find alternatives to fossil fuel-based plastics.
Reusable cloth masks have surged in popularity as they can be washed and worn multiple times. They are easy to craft at home, and many organizations online sell them as fundraising initiatives. Additionally, local designers may offer unique styles, allowing you to showcase your personality while staying safe.
If you enjoy DIY projects, you can refer to Health Canada for resources and guidelines on creating your own masks using materials like bandanas or t-shirts.
Proper Mask Usage
Acquiring a mask is just the first step; ensuring it fits correctly is equally crucial for its effectiveness. To wear a mask properly, it should cover your face from the bridge of your nose to underneath your chin and be securely fastened with ear loops or ties.
The mask should fit snugly without gaps, allowing you to breathe comfortably. A mask that doesn’t fit well may slip off, leading to more face-touching than is advisable.
Cleaning Your Reusable Mask
To clean your cloth mask after use, it can be added to your laundry with your other clothes using regular detergent and warm water. Alternatively, for hand washing, the CDC suggests soaking it in a mixture of five tablespoons (75 mL) of household bleach per gallon of room temperature water for five minutes, followed by thorough rinsing in cool or room temperature water. It is vital to ensure your mask is completely dry before reusing it.
By choosing reusable masks, we play our part in protecting those around us while promoting sustainability. The journey ahead remains challenging, but with collaboration, optimism, and awareness, we can make positive changes together.
