Scientists warn that disposable face masks could be significant sources of microplastics in the environment, highlighting the urgent need for better disposal strategies.The outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, has put healthcare systems and the economy under enormous pressure across the world.As of the end of 2020, the novel coronavirus has infected more than 82 million confirmed cases and killed more than 1.8 million people worldwide.Since the beginning of the pandemic, global consumption of disposable masks has skyrocketed due to evidence of their role in preventing the spread of infection.However, as these products are made from plastic non-woven fabrics (TNT), their improper disposal could be a potential source of microplastics released into the environment.Understanding the amount and type of microplastics released from disposable face masks will help inform policies on their use and disposal – helping to protect the environment from the potentially harmful effects of these microscopic pollutants.Disposable masks testIn a new study, published in Environmental Pollution, researchers assess the ability of new and used disposable face masks to release microplastics into the water.The team tested 18 different brands of disposable masks, including surgical masks, regular DFMs and respiratory masks – and new and used products.After shaking each mask in deionized water for 24 hours, they filtered the water through a cellulose membrane, which they dried and examined under a microscope.They quantified the particles based on their shape, color and size – and identified the types of polymers (in typical pull-out specimens) using Raman spectroscopy.The researchers used ultrapure water generated by an ELGA PURELAB® water purification system to prevent the introduction of contaminants during the experimental process.Use promotes the release of microplasticsFor all disposable face mask types, the microplastic release capacity was 183.00 ± 78.42 per piece for the new masks – increasing to 1246.62 ± 403.50 per piece for the used masks.This represents an increase from 6.0 to 8.1 times the number of microplastics released from used masks compared to new ones.The most abundant type of microplastic was medium-sized (100–500 µm) transparent polypropylene fibers originating from non-woven fabrics (TNT).These results suggest that, without effective disposal, used disposable masks could be a critical source of microplastic pollution in the environment.This is not only due to the large number of fibers carried by the masks, but also to the process of use, which further favors the production and release of microplastics.Better disposal strategies are essentialThis study highlights the need to introduce improved policies to ensure the effective disposal of face masks – particularly as increased consumption of these products is expected to continue in the years to come.Potential measures could include educating and informing the public on how to properly use and dispose of disposable face masks and providing centralized disposal options.These steps can help reduce the legacy of microplastic pollution in the environment from the COVID-19 pandemic.Why choose ELGA LabWater?ELGA LabWater has been a trusted and reference company in pure and ultra pure water since 1937. We give you the choice of how to use our water purification solutions, backed by excellent service and support.Chen X., et al.Used disposable face masks are significant sources of microplastics for the environment.Environ Pollut (2021): 285: 1117485. doi: 10.1016 / j.envpol.2021.117485After completing an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and Genetics at Sheffield University, Alison received a PhD in Human Molecular Genetics at the University of Newcastle.She worked five years as a senior postdoctoral researcher at UCL, investigating the genes involved in childhood obesity syndrome.Moving on to scientific communications, she spent ten years at Cancer Research UK engaging the public about the charity's work.She now specializes in writing about research in the life sciences, medicine and health.The Veolia group is the world reference in optimized resource management.Present on five continents with almost 179,000 employees, the Group designs and implements solutions for the management of water, waste and energy, which promote the sustainable development of cities and industries.With its three complementary activities, Veolia contributes to the development of access to resources, the preservation and renewal of available resources.In 2019, the Veolia group brought drinking water to 98 million inhabitants and sanitation to 67 million, produced around 45 million megawatt hours and valued 50 million tons of waste.Veolia Environnement (Paris Euronext : VIE) achieved a consolidated turnover of 27.189 billion euros in 2019.www.veolia.com