The Problem
A problem/ opportunity I discussed in a previous post that I'd like to follow up on is the issue of improper disposal of surgical face masks. A lot of people have been either disposing face masks incorrectly, trying to recycle them, or people have just tossed them, littering. Face masks are made of a material called polypropylene, a thermoplastic polymer. Despite being a plastic and seeming like they can be recycled, face masks are meant to be disposed of after single usage. I believe that in this shortage of supplies, and the ecological harm caused from single use face masks, developing a mask made from recyclable materials can be beneficial to both the environment and humans.
The Solution
Finding a solution to this problem is difficult. Changing the material of face masks to something recyclable is not an option. The material face masks are made from have been scientifically engineered to be safe, replacing polypropylene would endanger health care workers and others who rely on masks. A more realistic solution would be creating a way to sanitize face masks quickly and cheaply. This is possible by using a powerful ultra-violet light in conjunction with a fan to dry any droplets left on the masks.
Hi Alex,
ReplyDeleteI 100% agree with you that this is a problem. Whenever I go go to work, I have to drive across a bridge and I see tons of masks on the side of the bridge, like people just throw them out when they're driving across. What people are doing with their face masks is really sad, because not only is it gross to look at but it is bad for the environment. I think finding a way where we can sanitize them and extend their use would be a great way to solve the problem of people improperly disposing of them.
Will Templin