In 2020, it seems like every time we do something, a negative reaction is soon to follow. That is the case today with the rise of plastic pollution due to items such as single-use masks. While those masks are helping us stay alive, the irony is that at the same time they are helping to kill our planet. The point of discussing issues like these isn't to make us feel guilty, it's to educate ourselves and start the discussion as to what we can do to help.
That is why we've collaborated with Ocean Conservancy to create our new reusable masks, inspired by the ocean waves. Switching to reusable from single-use will help to combat the adverse affects these past few months have had on our environment.
The fact of the matter is, COVID-19 and plastic go hand in hand. Surgical masks, gloves, protective equipment, disposable plastic containers, individually wrapping food items- all necessary to prevent the spread of the virus. However, these items are now causing serious challenges that could effect us for years to come.
"We know that plastic pollution is a global problem -- it existed before the pandemic," Nick Mallos of US-based NGO Ocean Conservancy tells CNN. "(But) we've seen a lot of industry efforts to roll back some of the great progress that's been made. We need to be quite cautious about where we go, post-pandemic."
CNN reported that the number of global plastic production has quadrupled over the past four decades, a 2019 study found, with its authors warning that if that trend continues, the making of plastics will constitute up 15% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. By comparison, all of the world's forms of transportation now account for 15% of emissions.
“People do not have to choose one crisis over another,” Miriam Gordon, program director at Upstream Solutions says. “The plastic pollution and climate crises are much more long-term threats to our health, wealth, and environmental sustainability than the Covid-19 crisis.”
While much of this is out of our hands, the choice to switch to reusable masks is something we can do to help. Though seemingly small, it can have a major impact on the environmental battle we are currently all facing.
To purchase the EFAM X Ocean Conservancy Face Mask click HERE. By purchasing a reusable mask, you help Electric Family support Ocean Conservancy’s work to fight on the front lines of ocean protection, investing in research, leadership and advocacy that advances science-based solutions that work. Thank you for making a difference for our ocean.