A new study has found that billions of disposable face masks (DFMs) used during the COVID-19 pandemic now pose a significant environmental risk. Improperly discarded masks, particularly the N95 variety, are contributing to widespread microplastic pollution and releasing toxic chemicals into the environment.
The Scale of the Problem
The pandemic saw a dramatic surge in the use of disposable masks, with a study in the journal Environment Pollution estimating that their use increased by nearly 9,000% between March and October 2020. Globally, an additional 129 billion DFMs were used monthly. These masks, made from non-recyclable polymers like polypropylene, were often improperly discarded on streets, in parks, and in waterways, where they now pose a persistent threat. Researchers project that 4.3 million tonnes of this non-recyclable plastic waste was produced in just over a year across 11 countries alone.
Microplastics and Toxic Chemicals
The study found that these masks release a significant amount of microplastics and harmful chemicals into the environment, with N95 masks releasing 3-4 times more microplastic particles than surgical masks. The most common microplastic identified was polypropylene. Additionally, chemicals such as bisphenol B, an endocrine disruptor, were found to be leaching from the masks, posing a risk to both human and animal health.
The research highlights a significant gap in plastic regulation and management and calls for integrated policies involving researchers, producers, governments, and waste managers to address this global issue.