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Review on face masks – source of microplastics and its impact on ecosystem

Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of Botany and Centre for Research, St. Teresa’s College, Autonomous, Ernakulam, Kerala, India
  • 2Department of Botany and Centre for Research, St. Teresa’s College, Autonomous, Ernakulam, Kerala, India

Int. Res. J. Environment Sci., Volume 11, Issue (2), Pages 31-35, April,22 (2022)

Abstract

Covid-19 has changed the world upturned. The pandemic not only affected the humans but also the environment due to the plastic pollution generated from the improper disposal of covid -19 protective measures like a face mask, gloves, PPE kit, etc. The use of Face masks has become an inevitable preventive measure against coronavirus disease. The study has found that the remarkable increase and improper disposal of face masks are going to be the next pandemic in the future. The studies reveal the face masks have the potential to release micro-sized fibers known as micro plastics which is a menace to the flora and fauna of numerous ecosystems. The study provides an insight into the impact of illegitimately disposed face masks on the biotic and abiotic components.

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