COVID-19 Mask Recycling Initiatives From Across The Globe

Every month, around 129 billion disposable masks are used around the world. Large enterprises and independent researchers alike are now trying to come up with ways to recycle them and put them to their best possible use as an innovation.

Here are the current plans and execution of the COVID-19 Mask Recycling.

Research Taken Up For Recycling Masks

Australian researchers plan to turn single-use Covid masks into road material. Their research showed that using recycled face mask fibre to construct only one kilometer of the two-lane road will consume approximately 3 million masks, sparing 93 tonnes of waste from being disposed of in landfills.

A  group of researchers from India’s University of Petroleum and Energy Studies analysed the composition of masks, gloves, and other items to discover that they may be broken down into bio fuel at extreme temperatures.

As per a January parliamentary report, 40,000 tonnes of masks were discarded in France last year with no opportunity for recycling. Scholars have sat together to focus on this issue. This led to various strategies being formulated to combat mask pollution.

Strategies Enforced To Put Disposed Masks To Use

Several hospitals in the United Kingdom have purchased a compactor that melts protective robes and surgical masks into blue slabs. After that, the material is utilised to create garden seats or tables.

The country has also been reincarnating masks as vehicle floor carpets.

A recycling company in France collects masks thrown in dedicated bins used by 30 customers, hospitals and other companies, that are used to build other materials.

Another creative startup company in France discovered a new recycling market. They take disposable face masks and create fresh products. The company’s founders have been able to recycle an incredible amount of 70,000 masks. The result is a plastic fibre that can be used to make a variety of textile items.

In the US protective gear is repurposed into benches and New Jersey had recently seen a company, sell an $88 “zero waste box” for disposable masks.

Several companies have ever since shown interest, where their teams are now seeking financial aid to continue their research, which may take up to two years.

Summing Up

Just under a year ago, more than 1.5 billion masks were found in the many oceans, which resulted in an additional 6,200 tons of marine plastic pollution.

This created a new problem and challenge in the world that we still strive to comprehend and eliminate.

They are also polluting streets and are a threat to wildlife.

Due to their effectiveness in limiting the spread of disease, face masks have become a fundamental part and otherwise, an accessory. The disposable masks are what we need to look out for.

There have been tons of efficient initiatives taken up globally and researchers continue to find new possibilities to do away with the masks.

The right method of disposal should be followed by every citizen and firm while also seeking ways to come forward and recycle them for a sustainable and virus free world.