Author(s): Herath Hmbu; Herath Srdg; Weerasinghe Dart; Imalsha Rag; Ruwanthika Hkp; Rupasingha Khasv; Hettiarachchi Bm; Hima Hf; Perera Tant; Piyathilaka Mapc
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Abstract: Due to the global COVID 19 pandemic, the use of surgical face masks has increased dramatically in the last two years (Facciola et al., 2021). Surgical face masks are the most widely used and effective personal protective equipment used against COVID-19 pandemic. Face mask consumption has been estimated approximately 129 billion per month for 7.8 billion people around the world (Akarsu et al., 2021). Discarded face masks have been discovered in both terrestrial and aquatic environment, due to the improper management and uncivil behaviour of the population. They are made of plastic polymer fibbers that contain a high concentration of inorganic and organic compounds that can be released into aquatic environments during the degradation process. This source of micro plastics as well as inorganic and organic substances have been affecting the aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, this paper thoroughly examines published literature on (a) the effects of improper face mask disposal and their effects on the aquatic environment, and (b) development of eco -friendly face mask disposable methods.
Year: 2022