Eco-friendly way to wear a mask

WHETHER taking a taxi or bus, going through the airport, shopping, visiting a museum or walking into a restaurant, a face mask is now mandatory for most of us.

In fact, the Government has introduced £200 fines for failing to wear one when required and recommends using one anywhere you may be in contact with people you don’t normally meet.

This is because Covid-19 usually spreads by droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking. Masks are now commonplace — but there is increasing concern about the mountains of Covid waste caused by disposable types.

An alternative is a reusable, antibacterial mask made from soft, breathable fabric. This is a far more eco-friendly option which can be reused for up to a year, with filters that each give 40 hours of use.

Each filter should have five layers to help protect against airborne particles.

Just insert one between the mask’s two layers of fabric, press the nose bridge to the shape of your nose and adjust the ear loops for a good fit.

Used filters should be thrown away in general household waste and hands washed with soap and water or an alcoholbased hand gel.

Filter packs can easily be re-ordered and a storage bag protects the mask between uses. Antibacterial fabric impregnated with Sterileyes®, a biocide based on silver salt, will remain effective for the lifetime of the mask and bag if washed weekly, but it is best to replace them after a year.

While the mask, designed for use by the general public, doesn’t guarantee immunity against infectious diseases, the antibacterial technology reduces the bacterial load on it — while its reusable nature minimises the impact on the environment.