Mask waste in Singapore: 4 easy tips for proper disposal
Improper mask disposal poses environmental and contamination risks, according to infectious disease expert
SINGAPORE — As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, a new wave of the coronavirus has resulted in a concerning increase in reinfections.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung revealed earlier this month that the current wave has a higher reinfection rate of three in 10 cases, compared to the previous wave's rate of 20 to 25 per cent.
Consequently, some individuals have decided to wear masks again, despite the government lifting the mandate. However, improper disposal of these masks poses problems, including environmental concerns and the possibility of contamination.
What happens when you don't dispose of your mask properly?
Improper mask disposal can expose individuals to germs, not only for others but also for themselves, according to a report by Raffles Health.
The report highlights that research has shown that the COVID-19 virus can survive on surfaces for "a few hours or even up to several days", emphasising the potential for transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces.
It further states that leaving such surfaces exposed, or coming into contact with them, will increase the risk of catching the virus.
Several reports have also noted that single-use face masks, including the disposable masks used by the general public and medical-grade surgical masks, are often composed of polypropylene plastic, which breaks into micro-sized plastic fibres.
This type of plastic can take up to 450 years to decompose, exacerbating the already significant plastic waste issue in landfills.
How to properly dispose your masks
Dr Ling Li Min, an infectious disease specialist from Rophi Clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, shares with Yahoo Southeast Asia four tips to help dispose masks responsibly:
1. Remove the mask properly
When taking off your mask, please resist the urge to touch the front of it, said Dr Ling. Instead, use the ear loops or ties to remove it from behind, minimising the risk of contamination.
2. Store and dispose of the mask correctly
Fold your mask in half with the inside facing inwards, and either store it in a ziplock bag or wrap it in tissue paper to prevent it from unravelling.
Dispose of the mask in a covered garbage bin or a garbage bag that can be tied shut. It is important to remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use a hand sanitiser afterwards.
3. Minimise waste by reusing your mask
Although it is crucial to dispose of masks properly, we can also reduce waste by reusing them until they become damp or soiled. This typically lasts up to three days and ensures they remain dry between uses. Store them in a ziplock bag or plastic container for added protection.
4. Mitigate face mask pollution
Always remember to immediately dispose of your mask in a closed bin, and never litter it on the ground or in public places.
Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.
