Masks are essential for stopping the spread of COVID-19 during the pandemic and they have become an every day accessory. However, what are the effects of huge increase in the use of disposable masks? The environment is in danger of being another victim if masks are not disposed of carefully. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends discarding them in the "correct" rubbish bin immediately after use and not reusing them. What is the "correct" bin? Masks and other disposable material that are used to contain the pandemic, such as gloves, must not be disposed of in the recycling bin with packaging, cans, etc. or with organic waste. Do not throw them away with your general household rubbish. The Brazilian Sanitary and Environmental Engineering Association (ABES) has issued advice on the correct way to dispose of used masks and gloves. The materials should be placed into two small plastic bags - one inside the other. Tie the bags firmly and throw them into provided bins. If the materials have been in contact with an infected person, take extra care and write "risk of contamination" on the bag. These bins accept all non-woven, disposable, plastic-based masks including 3-ply surgical, dust masks, KN95, and N95 masks in addition to other disposable PPE items that cannot or should not be worn anymore. Please note that these bins are only for disposable PPE shown on the bin signage and are not intended to collect reusable, cloth masks.
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