Trash Masks

By MADELYN BOGLIOLI April 1, 2021

Masks have become part of daily life for everyone, and people can’t help but notice the pollution that disposable masks are causing.  To balance the scales, experts are calling for Americans to turn to the trash when they need a mask.  Across the country, more and more green-minded people are repurposing garbage to stay safe from the coronavirus.

Rather than using traditional masks, many Americans can be seen donning plastic bags, food wrappers, and depending on the size of their faces, plastic cups, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  In fact, due to the widespread popularity of this trend, the CDC has started a new initiative, “Trash it - Mask it.”  A representative from the CDC stated, “our studies have shown that trash masks a bit less effective, maybe 90 or  100% , than traditional face masks, and have actually been shown to cause the spread of the virus.  However, you just have to find the best trash to put on your face.

The best material according to our CDC rep, plastic bags.  “Plastic bags allow no air through them, no air - no virus,” suggests the CDC.  Additionally, using trash as masks will significantly reduce pollution.  

The CDC’s new directive follows an initiative by the Chinese government, and Chinese officials have been seen scavenging through the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to look for possible mask materials.  Already, the size of the continent-sized swirl of ocean garbage is noticeably smaller. 

For a better future, follow the trend, and preserve the environment.  Ditch real masks and just use trash.