Myriad launch reusable face coverings to help cut plastic pollution
With face coverings now a requirement on public transport in England and Scotland, we’ve launched a #ChooseToReuse campaign to champion sustainability at a time of crisis. In collaboration with Melisa Gooding from Sustain Create, we’re using circular economy principles to offer high quality reusable face coverings, in line with scientific advice, whilst having a positive impact on both people and planet.
Our face coverings are made from ‘upcycled’ fabric. Upcycling, defined as the conversion of waste materials to something useful or valuable, is a key strategy within the circular economy to ensure that products are given additional lifecycles and avoid landfill. The masks are also triple lined to offer the space for a filter, in addition to being machine washable so they can be reused time and time again.
We’re introducing reusable face coverings: upcycled, triple lined, and machine washable.
Why are reusable masks important?
Face coverings are now compulsory on public transport in both England and Scotland. A dramatic surge in their use is therefore expected over the coming weeks. For many, this may be welcome news, signifying the easing of lockdown restrictions and a return to work. However, it’s not such positive news for the planet.
Reusable face coverings have become the new essential accessory (Photo credit: Getty Images)
Most medical face masks are commonly made from polypropylene, which is single use, non-biodegradable and non-recyclable. According to a WWF report, the incorrect disposal of just 1% of masks results in as many as 10 million masks per month polluting the environment.
Using a washable, reusable face covering means that supplies of clinical PPE remain available for the people on the frontline who really need them, and reduce the amount of single-use plastic waste being created.
“The use of reusable masks by the general population would significantly reduce plastic waste and the climate change impact of any policy requirements for the wearing of face mask” (Professor Mark Miodownik, UCL)
The public use of reusable masks could avoid 66,000 tonnes of contaminated plastic waste being generated in a year, according to the UCL Plastic Waste Innovation Hub.
Single-use face masks washing up on Hong Kong beaches (Credit: OceansAsia)
Where are Myriad face coverings available?
Our reusable face coverings are made to order and available to order now.
10% of every sale is directed to Women’s Aid, a charity supporting women out of domestic abuse and working to build a future where domestic abuse is no longer tolerated.
Find out more about Melisa Gooding on Instagram.