Are Face-masks The New Plastic Bag?

I’m sure I’m not the only one but, since the COVID-19 pandemic started, I have been wondering where are we going to do with all the disposable facemask we are using around the world.

Well, today I just read a United Nations article regarding this topic that left me shocked!
We all know that the promotion of mask-wearing as a way to slow the spread of COVID-19 has led to an extraordinary increase in the production of disposable masks: the UN trade body, UNCTAD, estimates that global sales will total some $166 billion this year, up from around $800 million in 2019.

If historical data is a reliable indicator, it can be expected that around 75 percent of the used masks, as well as other pandemic-related waste, will end up in landfills, or floating in the seas  Aside from the environmental damage, the financial cost, in areas such as tourism and fisheries, is estimated by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) at around $40 billion.
The study, “Breaking the Plastic Wave: A Comprehensive Assessment of Pathways Towards Stopping Ocean Plastic Pollution”, which was endorsed by Inger Andersen, head of the UN environment agency UNEP, forecasts that, if no action is taken, the number of plastics dumped into the ocean will triple by 2040, from 11 to 29 million tonnes per year !!!!

But around 80 percent of plastic pollution could be eliminated over this same period, simply by replacing inadequate regulation, changing business models, and introducing incentives leading to the reduced production of plastics. Other recommended measures include designing products and packaging that can be more easily recycled, and expanding waste collection,
Global cooperation is essential and promoting planet and job-friendly alternatives as well.

What do you think about this? Do you think is all about implementing new practices from the government? Is the consumer’s responsibility only? or both? Let me know in the comments what are you doing to alleviate the pandemic environmental impact. And what do you think we could do better.

Wearing Reusable Ghost Facemask available to order NOW.

Preloved Fendi scarf, Tony Bianco platforms, ELK clutch bag, Tightology thighs #memade skirt.