News / city to sea
‘Clear guidance on reusable masks needed to prevent wave of plastic pollution’
Environmental campaign organisation City to Sea is calling on the Government to issue clear guidance on the use of reusable masks as a safe alternative to disposable.
The plea comes amid fears that ever-increasing use of single-use face coverings could result in a wave of plastic pollution, turning back the tide on work to stamp out non-reusable items and clean up our oceans.
The Government has made a U-turn on initial guidance over the use of face masks in secondary schools and now says they should be worn in communal areas.
is needed now More than ever
City to Sea’s campaigns manager Steve Hynd argues clearer guidance is needed to encourage students and staff to wear reusable face masks instead of single-use, disposable masks.
“The Government has said that reusable masks are safe to use, but this guidance needs to be effectively communicated with schools, staff and pupils otherwise we risk another wave of plastic pollution,” says Steve.
“This is about making sure we keep ourselves and those around us safe but also that we also keep our planet safe from a growing problem of single-use plastics.”
During the coronavirus crisis, the City to Sea team has been highlighting the negative impact that Covid-19 is having on plastic pollution – especially relating to PPE.
If every person in the UK used one single-use mask each day for a year, an extra 66,000 tonnes of contaminated plastic waste would be created, according to an analysis by scientists at University College London.
Steve says there is also the cost implication of continually buying disposable masks, adding: “There are also needs to be greater clarity given to students and staff that explain reusable masks are safe and more affordable.
“Single-use masks are expensive and an extra burden on many households that are struggling with costs.”
Main photo courtesy of City to Sea
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