by Lisa Luck, Solid Waste Consultant and Volunteer Writer
Like it or not, masks will be a part of our lives for an unknown period of time thanks to Covid-19. Covid-19 is most easily spread through droplets from our respiratory systems propelled outward through breathing, singing, coughing and/or sneezing. Properly worn masks contain our respiratory droplets and keep others from being exposed to any viruses or diseases we may harbor. When we wear masks – we protect others. When others wear masks – they protect us. Containing our own respiratory waste has become crucial in preventing the spread of this virus.
Facemasks protect us from Covid-19.
Photo retrieved from Unsplash.com
Masks can either be disposable masks or can be made from cloth. Like many other items we use to make our lives easier and more convenient, disposable masks are easily obtained and inexpensive. But as far as waste goes, masks create the same disposal issues as other disposable items. Disposable masks contain plastics that enter the environment once they are thrown away. Whether they are thrown out as litter or whether they are put in the garbage, they will deteriorate over time and degrade into microplastics. These are the same microplastics currently choking our rivers, streams and oceans. Another issue with disposable masks is that the elastic used to hold the mask on one’s face can easily get tangled around an animal’s feet, legs, head or body. So before throwing a mask away, cut the elastic to prevent it from causing harm to wildlife.
Although less convenient than a disposable mask, a cloth mask causes less harm to the environment. It can be made from scrap cloth that doesn’t contain plastic so it will decompose completely once it is discarded. It can be reused and thereby reduces the amount of waste that we generate throughout our lifetimes. Homemade masks can be made using patterns posted on the internet using your own used clothing. The way to know if your homemade mask is working to contain respiratory droplets is to put on your mask and then try to blow out a candle. A good mask will prevent the candle from being blown out.
Masks have recently become one of the most littered items. Six months ago, masks were seldom found along roadsides or in parking lots. Now, discarded masks are found everywhere. They are lightweight and easily wash into waste water systems where they travel to the ocean – unless they get tangled in the waterways or around an animal. Some people put them in paper or plastic recycling collection bins in the hope that they can be recycled. Masks cannot be recycled. They may be contaminated and therefore must go into a garbage container.
Facemasks collected in a litter pick-up in Oakwood neighobrhood, Knoxville, TN. Photo by Emily Ellis
Using a mask is an important choice to make to protect ourselves and others. Masks can serve as a reminder to prevent accidental spread of the virus by touching our faces. For those who do not required N95-level protection, choosing a mask that doesn’t negatively affect the environment is another important choice. Cloth masks reduce the amount of waste generated and are environmentally friendly because they decompose rather than persisting in the environment.
Contact Lisa at lisaluck.work@gmail.com
