The widespread of Covid-19 has caused a tremendous increase in demand for masks. Yes indeed, masking up did save many lives during the pandemic, but it also caused another problem.
An article on Straits Times on 9 Jan 2021 reported that 3 million masks are being disposed every minute!
Not only the conservationists and non-governmental organisations are worried, we at Moveman are worried too!
Let's simplify things so that all of us can understand. Assuming we wear mask everyday for 8 hours for 2 month.
If we were to wear disposable mask, we would need to dispose the mask everyday as the mask is effective up to 8 hours. That would be 60 masks in a period of 2 months.
When placed side by side. 60 masks would cover about 1 sq m.
Now, if we were to wear our Silicon Face Mask.
As our mask is N95 equivalent, the filter can be worn up to 3 days. When put together side by side, it will take about 144 masks to cover 1 sq m. That will take 14 months to get to that amount.
To sum it up:
Mask Type | Moveman Silicone Mask | Disposable Surgical Mask |
Duration of use | 3 Days | 1 Day |
Size of Filter | 120mm x 60mm | 175mm x 95mm |
Days to dispose 1sq m of mask | 432 Days | 60 Days |
Biodegradable | Yes | Yes |
Depending on individual usage and preference, there are times where the advantages of one mask will outweigh the other. But as a general thumb of rule, it is always better to produce less waste products, so do take that into account when you are choosing your mask!
Mask up, stay safe!
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