Facemasks are slowly becoming a part of everyday life. The phenomenon is due to personal preference and the fact that more pubic spaces are requiring them. With increasing mandates and the promotion of facemasks, pollution is becoming an issue for our ecosystem. Improper disposal causes them to wind up on land and in the sea. It seems that officials have been more concerned with spreading the message of their required use than guiding users on proper handling and disposal. Hazards to People, Animals, and the Ecosystem The initial issue in the improper discarding of medical material is the spread of infection. In the case of the Covid-19 virus, it's known to survive on surfaces for an extended period of time, as in mecda.org, creating a risk for anyone who comes in close contact. In the case of a mask, anyone who comes in contact and afterward touches their eyes, nose, or mouth increases their risk of becoming infected. Not to mention that any medical waste is potentially hazardous as a feeding ground for the growth of dangerous microbes. Secondly comes animals and plants. With plastic and cloth pieces strewn all around the ground, the ecosystem suffers. Animals could choke on them or become entangled in them, unable to break free. The plastic in masks is strong and merely impossible to break down and degrade. These particles may break down and get smaller, only to make their way into the ground and wind up in our food and water supply over time. Littler is an ongoing issue, and masks are adding to its severity. Taking Responsibility It's a positive thing that more people are wearing masks. They have been linked to a decrease in the spread and infection and are a temporary fix until a more permanent one comes to light. Companies are taking steps to promote the wearing of masks in public spaces. They seek to encourage employees to participate and promote a positive and healthy atmosphere. Several American companies, like intrepidprotect.com, have jumped in to help, attempting to make masks more affordable. With their subscription plan, companies can keep track of their supply and stock up as needed. Even though there seems to be a shift in belief and moral obligations in the United States, there is still a lot of work. It is up to each individual to properly dispose of their masks to protect others and the environment. It's also a responsibility that elected officials should hit on, educating the American people about the proper handling and disposal of facemasks. A collective approach to these strange and new times is key to making it through and making Covid-19 a thing of the past.
While we might not see the effects of our actions in the next year, it will be the generations after that suffer. It's up to everyone to take part and pull their weight, pitching in to do the best thing for the American people, and in the case of Covid-19, for the entire world.
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May 2020
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