While disposable masks offer a fast and effective solution to protect you and your community in the short-term, replacing masks on a regular basis can lead to stockpiling or making multiple visits to the shops. Not to mention, disposable face masks could have a negative impact on the environment.

Luckily, Scottish retailers are increasingly stocking reusable face masks to reduce waste and level-out the supply across the country. Join us as we explore the environmental benefits of reusable antiviral face masks and offer some top tips on taking care of your reusable face mask. 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF DISPOSABLE FACE MASKS

Recent research by UCL's Plastic Waste Innovation Hub found that if every person in the UK used one single-use face mask each day for a year, it would create 66,000 tonnes of contaminated plastic waste.

They also predict that the negative impact towards climate change is ten times higher with disposable face masks, compared with reusable alternatives.

While single-use face masks are effective for protecting users against COVID-19, it’s important to look ahead into the future to develop a sustainable solution to the ongoing pandemic. 

BENEFITS OF WEARING A REUSABLE FACE MASK

Reusable face masks offer a safe and eco-friendly option to protect you and your community against the transmission of COVID-19 through water droplets in the air.

Not only can you choose a mask that suits your personal style, but you can also relax in the knowledge that you won’t be adding unnecessary plastic waste to the five-million tonnes of plastic used in the UK each year.

HOW TO WASH A REUSABLE FACE MASK

Associate Professor of Environmental Microbiology at Loma Linda University School of Public Health, Ryan Sinclair, says pathogens like bacteria and viruses can live on cloth fabric for up to 12 hours.

With this in mind, The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends washing your reusable mask after each day of use. Keeping your mask hygienic is as simple as running it through a washing machine with detergent at a high temperature.

Alternatively, you can use a large bowl of warm water with soap, if you don’t have access to a washing machine.

WHERE TO BUY FACE MASKS?

Here at Kalopsia Collective, we’re incredibly grateful for the support from our local community over the past few months. We’re proud to have tailored our services to help our loyal patrons and do our bit in Scotland’s effort to fight the battle against COVID-19.

Browse our beautiful range of environmentally-conscious face masks to protect your community and save our planet.