Background: Face masks are part of personal protective equipment with the majority being disposable and primarily made of plastic materials. The widespread disposal of these masks in the environment has resulted in the accumulation of thousands of tons of contaminated waste, posing significant environmental, social, and waste management challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the production, consumption, and subsequent disposal of Face masks, thereby exacerbating these issues. This study aims to assess the environmental impacts associated with Face mask use and to explore strategies for their mitigation.
Methods: Relevant data were gathered from scientific databases including ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to explore sustainable solutions for mitigating Face mask-related pollution. The study examined Face mask structure, types, performance, filtration efficiency, plastic pollution, ecological changes, and waste management methods to address environmental issues.
Results: The findings highlight the structural components and types of Facemasks commonly used, particularly in medical settings, and their subsequent environmental implications. Disposable Face masks have been found to contain harmful compounds, including heavy metals, and contribute to global warming. Waste management methods such as landfilling, incineration, recycling, and reuse are commonly employed, though each has limitations. The adaption of biodegradable mask alternatives is proposed to reduce the release of microplastic consumption and greenhouse gases into the environment.
Conclusion: This review contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the environmental burden of Face mask waste and presents potential mitigation strategies. By evaluating various aspects of Face mask pollution and disposal, the study supports the development of context-specific waste management practices to prevent environmental contamination.