It’s an undeniable reality that COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, will continue to impact our lives for an extended period. As highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), effective preventive measures include frequent handwashing, practicing social distancing, and, most critically, wearing masks in communal areas.
While these precautions have become integral to our daily habits, they are also leading to significant environmental concerns. A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology estimated a staggering global consumption of 129 billion face masks and 65 billion gloves each month.
Nick Mallos, senior director at the nonprofit organization Ocean Conservancy, described these figures as “staggering” in an interview with CNN. He noted that the disposal of single-use plastic personal protective equipment (PPE) poses a serious threat to our natural ecosystems.
It’s vital to understand the different types of masks available and to select the one that is best for you and the environment.
Why Are Masks So Important?
COVID-19 primarily spreads through airborne respiratory droplets, which are tiny particles expelled from our mouths during activities like talking, singing, coughing, sneezing, or even laughing.
Since asymptomatic individuals can still carry the virus, wearing masks in public spaces where we might be close to others is crucial. This practice is aimed at protecting those around us and minimizing transmission risks.
Although wearing a mask has become a normal part of our routines, it is particularly essential in confined public areas such as shops, buses, and workplaces, which are significant transmission hotspots.
Since the onset of the pandemic, health officials’ recommendations about mask usage have stirred some debate. While masks can indeed be uncomfortable and feel stuffy, especially during warmer months, returning to a sense of normalcy depends on prioritizing public health over comfort. Authorities maintain that individuals who are two years old or younger or those with breathing difficulties should not wear masks; everyone else is encouraged to do so to help curb the virus’s spread.
Different Mask Types
Surgical and N95 masks are primarily reserved for healthcare professionals to protect against the virus and are generally not recommended for the general public, except for those caring for COVID-19 patients.
The most widely used face coverings are disposable non-medical masks, designed to block droplet transmission while providing a physical barrier over the nose and mouth. These masks are intended for single use and should be discarded after one day to prevent germ transfer from hands and faces during use.
Opt for Reusable Masks!
Though disposable masks are widely available and affordable, considering their environmental impact is important before selecting them. In May, the French nonprofit Opération Mer Propre (Operation Clean Sea) reported alarming findings of discarded gloves, hand sanitizer bottles, and surgical masks along the Côte d’Azur after lockdown restrictions were lifted.
The United Nations has also voiced concerns about surging plastic pollution as a result of the pandemic and is advocating for the adoption of sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel plastics.
Reusable cloth masks, which can be washed and worn multiple times, are gaining traction among the public. They are relatively simple to make at home and increasingly available online, often serving as innovative fundraising products for nonprofits. They also allow individuals to showcase their personal style through unique designs from local artisans and vendors.
If you’re interested, check out Health Canada’s information on how to create your own DIY masks from common household items like t-shirts or bandanas.
Proper Mask Usage
Acquiring a mask is just the first step; ensuring it fits properly is equally important for effectiveness. A mask should cover from the bridge of your nose to beneath your chin, and it should fit snugly with either ties or ear loops.
While it should allow for comfortable breathing and not have gaps, it also needs to be secure enough to prevent frequent adjustments, which can increase the risk of touching your face unnecessarily.
How to Clean Your Reusable Mask
To clean your cloth mask after use, simply toss it into your laundry with regular detergent and warm water. Alternatively, if handwashing is preferred, the CDC recommends soaking it in a solution of 75 mL (5 tablespoons) of bleach per gallon of room-temperature water for 5 minutes, followed by a thorough rinse in cool or room-temperature water. Before wearing it again, make sure to completely dry your mask.
By wearing reusable masks, we contribute to the well-being of those around us while also supporting sustainable practices. The challenges ahead may be daunting, but through collaboration, positivity, and heightened awareness, we have the potential to make significant strides together.
