How can we manage the recycling of face masks effectively? 

The first thing to bear in mind when disposing of a face mask is to be aware that it is an item that may be contaminated with COVID-19. For this reason, it is very important that we recycle face masks correctly.

In fact, there are already many institutions that have published rRecommendations for the recycling and disposal of face masks. These include a number of highly prestigious organisations in the healthcare sector, such as the WHO or the AEMPS. However, for the time being, it seems that experts have yet to agree on the best way to manage waste from face masks.

Some basic guidelines on recycling face masks

Among the recommendations published by the leading national and international health authorities, in GTF M. Camps We would like to highlight the following:

• It is advisable to Leave the face masks in a safe place for 24 hours before throwing them in a bin, for example inside a bin bag. This is mainly to ensure that anyone who has to handle the rubbish remains safe at all times.
• The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends dispose of them in a suitable bin immediately after use y do not reuse them.
• It is advisable, before placing them in a waste bin, cut the two elastic bands that hold the face mask in place around the ears. This will help ensure that, should this mask accidentally end up in our seas and oceans, it does not act as a trap for the animals that live there.

Remember:

• You must remove your face mask by holding onto its two elastic straps and then folding it so that the outside is on the inside.
• By cutting up the rubber bands, you’ll be helping to protect marine life
• By placing face masks in a separate plastic bag within your general waste, you increase the safety of the person who will be handling that waste.

Recyclable or non-recyclable? The WHO’s recommendations

Surgical masks are made from non-woven fabric polypropylene, produced from ethylene, which is a chemical compound derived from petroleum or natural gas.

It is a type of plastic that is very difficult to break down. And, as a result, it is harmful to the environment. 

¿What does the WHO recommend regarding the recycling of face masks?? 

• How does the polypropylene on the recycling/disposal of face masks?
  The polypropylene It is a type of plastic that takes around 450 years to break down. Therefore, our cooperation in disposing of it correctly is vital – both for the population as a whole and for our planet.

• What does the WHO recommend regarding face masks?
  Some people wonder whether it is appropriate put the face masks in the recycling bin y The answer is no: this could put the health of refuse collectors and other workers in the recycling industry at risk.

• What are the options for disposing of face masks?
  The best option is, without a doubt, to put the face masks in a bin for medical waste.

  And if that option isn’t feasible – which is usually the case – the best option is to deposit them in the waste container (grey bin).

  Under no circumstances should they be placed in the plastics container (yellow bin).