The Unseen Threat: Microplastic Emissions from Face Masks and Limited Public Awareness

Masks are typically made of plastic materials, which can contribute to plastic pollution if not properly disposed. A survey should be conducted to assess the public awareness of microplastics (MP) emissions and mask disposal, which could inform targeted educational campaigns to promote sustainable practices. This study used an online survey to gather data from a sample of the general public aged 20 years or older who had used masks. The survey included questions on mask usage, disposal, and awareness of the presence of MP in masks. The survey found that, although awareness of the risks of MP was high, the respondents’ understanding of them was low, particularly among younger individuals. The survey also revealed that more than half of the respondents did not know whether their masks contained plastic materials and that there was a lack of awareness regarding the potential environmental and health impacts of improper mask disposal. These results revealed that it is crucial to raise public awareness of the environmental and health impacts of improper mask disposal and the presence of MP in masks.