Considerate Disposal of Facemasks and Use of Reusable Masks

What is the best advice when it comes to wearing and disposing of facemasks in order to protect the environment? A great resource to check out is the UK government's own website here, which often provides updates on the latest guidance when it comes to facemasks and other PPE.

Reusable facemasks, when used safely, mean we can reduce our reliance on single-use products so may provide a beneficial option in terms of reducing environmental impacts.

When should we wear facemasks?

It’s very important to wear protective facemasks in many situations to help prevent and reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Wearing facemasks is not only about keeping you personally safe from others, but it is also about keeping others safe. Sometimes, it is possible to have coronavirus without exhibiting any symptoms. Therefore, it’s always advisable to wear facemasks when you are going to come into close proximity with others, for example when travelling by public transport.

The UK government has its specific advice and guidance here

Are facemasks made out of plastic?

There are a range of different types of facemasks. Some of them are made out of cotton, some of them have plastic pieces on them, and some of them are made out of a fabric called ‘melt-blown polypropylene’. The materials differ depending on the mask.

How should we dispose of facemasks?

Facemasks should NOT be put in your recycling. Unfortunately, face masks like other PPE that could potentially come into contact with coronavirus, are not generally suitable for recycling.

One of the main reasons for this is to help prevent the spread of infection. In order to keep waste collection, sorting and recycling staff safe, facemasks should be put in the regular litter bins.

Under no circumstances should facemasks be littered into the environment.

PPE is unfortunately not recyclable and needs to be disposed of in general waste bins. If someone does have coronavirus there is a concern of infection spreading from PPE they have used. The UK government therefore advises that any household with suspected coronavirus cases should keep waste separate for 72 hours before putting into their general waste bin.

PPE within the recycling stream would be a contaminate which would need to be removed which could pose a health concern for staff within recycling facilities. PPE should never be littered as it is a potential health risk as well as being bad for the environment.

There is specific guidance for carers and hospitals for safe disposal of their PPE which may need to be treated as clinical waste and disposed of appropriately.

What about reusable facemasks?

From an environmental standpoint, it makes a lot of sense to safely use reusable facemasks.

Reusable facemasks are an option that can help us prevent the waste associated with single use facemasks.

Where possible, we should always seek to use reusable products, and as long as it can be done safely, this is also an excellent possibility when it comes to masks.