disposable masks of class waste

Disposable masks: class waste? Complex problem?
In a short period of time, disposable medical masks have become an integral part of our daily life. They protect us from viruses and infections, but after use they turn into a serious environmental problem. Billions of masks annually go to landfills, creating waste mountains that slowly decompose, pollute the environment and threaten wildlife. The issue of disposal of these seemingly insignificant objects is becoming more and more acute.
Environmental impact
The main problem is the material from which masks are made. Most often it is polypropylene - plastic, which decomposes for centuries. A huge number of masks left on the streets, in parks and forests not only spoils the landscape, but also causes irreparable harm to the environment. Plastic fibers, decomposing, pollute the soil and water, falling into the food chain and threatening animal and people's health. Birds and sea inhabitants get confused in masks, taking them for food, which leads to injuries and death.
Ways to solve the problem
Fortunately, there are ways to minimize the negative impact of disposable masks. The most obvious is the right disposal. Masks should be thrown into specially designed containers for medical waste, and not just leave on the streets. In some regions, programs for the processing of medical waste are already being introduced to extract valuable resources from used masks. It is important to remember that even the small actions of each person contribute to solving a common problem.
Future without garbage from masks
In the long run, it is necessary to look for alternative solutions. The development of biodegradable masks from environmentally friendly materials is an important step towards solving the problem. Investments in scientific research are also necessary to create effective and environmentally friendly methods for processing existing polypropylene masks. Only an integrated approach, which includes the correct disposal, the development of innovative materials and a change in consumer behavior, will be able to provide us with the future without the streets littered with garbage and a healthy planet.