MANAGE YUH MASK WITH THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF SINGLE-USE MASKS

Single-use masks are the go-to masks for protection against COVID-19 for multiple reasons. They are inexpensive, they are highly accessible, and they can be worn with almost anything! But they are harmful to the environment.

According to research from the University of Denmark, over three (3) million masks are being used per minute. Imagine if half of those masks are being disposed of improperly. Now, to feed your imagination, take a walk in a highly condensed urban area and focus on how easy it is to count ten (10) on the ground at any given hour.

Those 10 masks alone pose extreme threat to the environment. Even after 450 years, they are not broken down completely, but are broken down into microplastics.

It is imperative that people become more aware of how to properly dispose of single use masks.

1. Snip the straps.

Before disposing of masks, remove the straps. This helps to prevent them from getting entangled in wildlife both on dry land and in waterways.

2. Do not dispose of them in a recycling bin.

A “recycling bin” is exactly what it sounds like- a bin that holds material that will be converted into reusable material. Single-use masks are typically made with “polypropylene”, which takes forever to be completely broken down!

3. Find a more sustainable option.

It’s best to keep safe without having to constantly think about imminent harm. Using a three-layer fabric mask will protect you and pose less threat to the environment.

Protecting yourself does not have to cause a such great risk to the environment. While reusable masks are ideal, if it is necessary that you wear a single-use mask, ensure to take proper disposal steps. Remember: POP IT OFF! Then dispose of the contents in a standard garbage bin.

And that is how you Manage Yuh Mask.