Face Mask Pollution: Reducing Its Environmental Impact

Face masks have become a common sight around the world in recent years, with rising air pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic making them a necessity for many. But with this increased usage comes a new problem: mask pollution. In this article, we will discuss the environmental impact of discarded face masks and offer some solutions to reduce their harmful effects on the planet.

How to choose the best face mask

Face masks have become a necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, but their improper disposal has led to environmental concerns. With millions of face masks being thrown away, it is crucial to choose the best option for both protection and sustainability. Here are some guidelines on how to select the most suitable face mask:

Understand the Different Types of Masks:

The commonly used masks are cloth, surgical, and N-95. Cloth masks are typically worn by the general public and can be homemade or store-bought. Surgical masks are designed for single-use and act as a barrier to protect sterile environments. N-95 masks offer the highest protection, filtering out about 95% of airborne particles, and are primarily used by healthcare workers.

Consider the Level of Protection:

The level of protection offered varies among the different types of masks. N-95 masks provide the highest level of protection against airborne particles and are ideal for healthcare workers or high-risk settings. Surgical masks offer moderate protection and are suitable as a barrier against droplets or aerosols. Cloth masks offer basic protection and are generally recommended for low-risk, everyday use.

Evaluate Breathability and Comfort:

When choosing a face mask, ensure it provides adequate breathability and comfort. Look for masks with an inner layer designed for breathability, usually made of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. Some masks, like the N-95, have an exhaust valve that improves comfort by making it easier to breathe. This feature can be beneficial for those who have difficulty breathing while wearing a mask.

Reusable vs. Disposable:

Reusable masks are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than disposable masks. Cloth masks are designed to be reused, while surgical and N-95 masks are typically intended for single-use. Reusable masks with replaceable filters offer a good balance between protection and sustainability. Machine-washing reusable masks is preferable to manual washing, as it is better for the environment and ensures proper sanitization.

Fit and Seal:

A proper fit is essential for the effectiveness of a face mask. Look for masks with adjustable ear loops or straps to ensure a snug fit. A well-fitted mask prevents gaps through which pollutants can enter, increasing its effectiveness. A good seal is especially important for those with breathing issues, as it minimizes the effort required to breathe while wearing the mask.

Additional Features:

Some masks incorporate activated carbon filters, which can absorb gases, odors, and certain toxins. These masks are often more expensive but offer enhanced protection. Additionally, consider masks with a silicon lining if you have asthma, bronchitis, COPD, or other breathing issues, as it provides extra comfort.

Government Guidelines and Standards:

When selecting a face mask, refer to the guidelines provided by government and health organizations. For example, the Bureau of Indian Standards under the health ministry issues guidelines for face mask standards, focusing on specific raw materials and filtration efficiency. Ensure the mask you choose meets the recommended standards for protection and quality.

In conclusion, when choosing the best face mask, consider your specific needs, the level of protection required, and the environmental impact. Prioritize masks that offer adequate protection, are comfortable to wear, and align with sustainable practices. Remember to follow official guidelines and stay informed about the latest recommendations from health organizations.

The effectiveness of cloth masks

Cloth masks are widely used to reduce exposure to harmful particles in the air, and their use became more common after the COVID-19 outbreak. The efficacy of cloth masks has been the subject of several studies, which suggest that they offer some protection against harmful particles.

One study from 2023 tested the efficiency of different types of masks, including cloth masks, surgical masks, and N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs). The results showed that the filtering efficiency of cloth masks against ambient coarse particulates (PM10) ranged from 5% to 34%, with an average of 16%. In comparison, the efficiency of surgical masks and N95 FFRs was found to be significantly higher, at 42% and 71%, respectively.

Another study, which assessed the effectiveness of face masks or respirators in preventing the acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 infection, found that always using a face mask or respirator in indoor public settings was associated with lower adjusted odds of a positive test result compared to never wearing a face covering. The type of mask or respirator also made a difference, with N95/KN95 respirators and surgical masks offering significantly more protection than not wearing a mask.

While cloth masks may not be as effective as surgical masks or N95 respirators, they still offer some level of protection. Linsey Marr, a Virginia Tech university professor specializing in aerosol science, has stated that even if a mask has an 80% efficiency, it still offers meaningful protection. She likens the mask to a forest of trees—the mask's layers of fibers create a barrier that virus particles must navigate, increasing the likelihood that they will be trapped.

Furthermore, cloth masks can be modified to improve their effectiveness. For example, the addition of eco-friendly cotton fabric with better facial adherence can enhance the protection offered by cloth masks. Other modifications include adjustable ear loops, pockets for replaceable filters, and a nose pin for a better fit. These modifications can result in efficacy almost equivalent to that of standard N95 FFRs.

Respirators vs. surgical and fabric masks

Respirators, surgical masks, and fabric masks all offer protection against air pollution, but they differ in terms of protection level, reusability, and comfort. Here is a detailed comparison of the three types of masks:

Respirators

Respirators are sturdier and offer a higher level of protection than surgical or fabric masks. They are designed to protect the wearer from airborne contaminants, including particles, gases, and vapours, with a wide range of aerosol-filtering capacity, often up to 99%. Respirators are made to form a tight seal on the wearer's face, with no leaks whatsoever. This means that they need to be fit-tested to ensure optimal protection. Respirators are usually meant for single-use, but some types can be used multiple times by changing filters or following a decontamination process. They are typically made from materials such as spun-bond fabric and melt-blown fabric.

Surgical Masks

Surgical masks, also known as medical procedure masks, are loose-fitting and designed to cover the mouth and nose. They offer excellent protection due to their filtration and fluid resistance capabilities. These masks are usually made from non-woven material and are meant for single-use only. They protect the wearer from large particles, splashes, droplets, mucus, and spit. A simple ""knot and tuck" technique can be used to improve the fit of rectangular surgical masks.

Fabric Masks

Fabric masks, typically made from cotton or linen, can provide varying levels of protection depending on their design, cut, fitting, number of layers, and tightness of the weave. They are generally less protective than respirators but can offer greater or lesser protection than surgical masks. Fabric masks are reusable and can be washed and dried for reuse. However, it is important to ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned after each use. Fabric masks should have a proper fit, covering the nose, mouth, and chin without any gaps, and ideally have multiple layers of tightly woven, breathable fabric.

Key Differences

Respirators offer the highest level of protection and are designed to form a tight seal with the wearer's face. They are typically single-use and have more stringent approval requirements. Surgical masks provide excellent protection but do not offer leak-proof coverage. Fabric masks offer the lowest level of protection and can vary significantly in terms of fitting and protection, depending on their design and fabric.

N95 and KN95 masks: the difference

N95 and KN95 masks are similar but not the same. N95 masks are the US standard for respirator masks, while KN95 masks are the Chinese standard. N95 masks are considered the gold standard of face masks and are highly protective against COVID-19 when used properly. They are also ideal for healthcare and industrial workers dealing with highly contagious diseases. N95 masks are also a subtype of "surgical" respirators, which help protect against extra hazards that doctors and healthcare workers may encounter, such as blood splatter.

KN95 masks are the Chinese equivalent of N95 masks and are made of the same synthetic material. They are also highly protective and offer even more protection than surgical and cloth masks. However, the main difference is that N95 masks have to meet stricter requirements, including the ability to filter out bacteria and viruses, and be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). N95 masks also have slightly stronger breathability standards and are required to be slightly more breathable than KN95 masks.

In terms of availability, KN95 masks are more readily available to the general public than N95 masks, as the latter are often reserved for healthcare workers due to meeting NIOSH standards. When purchasing either type of mask, it is important to buy from reputable brands and sources to ensure their legitimacy and quality.

Air purifiers with HEPA filters

HEPA filters are particularly beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory conditions, as they can remove common allergens and fine particles from the air. They can also help to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, lower blood pressure, increase productivity, alleviate asthma symptoms, and decrease inflammation within 24 hours.

When choosing an air purifier with a HEPA filter, consider the area coverage, filtration system, cost, and replacement frequency of the filters. It is also important to ensure that the purifier has a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) that is at least two-thirds of the area it will be cleaning.

• Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max: This purifier has a four-stage filtration system, including a washable pre-filter, a true HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter. It is suitable for spaces up to 456 sq ft and has a noise level of 23-50 dB.
• GermGuardian AirSafe + Intelligent Air Purifier: This purifier has a true HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter, making it effective against particles down to 0.1 microns. It is suitable for spaces up to 215 sq ft and has a noise level of 24 dB.
• Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover Air Purifier: This purifier uses a pre-filter and a true HEPA filter to capture particles down to 0.3 microns. It comes in five different sizes, with a maximum coverage area of 1,000 sq ft.
• Coway Airmega 400s: This purifier has a four-layer filtration system and can handle particles as small as 0.1 microns. It has a high CADR of 325-400 and can cover up to 3,100 sq ft.
• Blueair Blue Pure 511: This purifier has a three-stage filtration system, including a true HEPA filter and a carbon-activated filter. It is energy-efficient and suitable for spaces up to 400 sq ft.
• Levoit Core Mini: This purifier has a three-stage filtration system, including a true HEPA filter and a carbon-activated filter. It is the quietest model on this list, with a noise level of only 37.2 dB. It is suitable for small spaces, with a coverage area of up to 378 sq ft.

Frequently asked questions