The company Bioinicia and the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) launched the Bio Hygienic mask with EPI-type fit. It is the first compostable nanofiber mask in the world, which has a filtration superior to 98 % against aerosols and compost in twenty-two days.

According to the information outlined, it is the “most sustainable option to avoid the accumulation of masks in the environment.” It also indicates that the most respectful aspect “is to produce them using raw materials derived from biomass or waste and their subsequent organic recycling in the form of industrial composting, so that the carbon returns to the earth.”

As explained by José María Lagarón, CSIC researcher and leader of the group of researchers who, together with Bioinicia, creators of the mask, at this time almost all masks are made of a plastic derived from petroleum that does not biodegrade.

The new Proveil EPI mask is made with natural raw material and with 30% less plastics in its constitution. Its components will become water and CO2 over time, preventing millions of tons of plastics from reaching the oceans.

Respecting the environment

The use of the mask, as protection from Covid-19, has become an imminent risk for the environment because the mere fact of throwing them in the toilet or on the ground, and not doing it in the recommended places is a serious problem, since it causes the same damage as throwing wipes and plastics.

It takes many years to disintegrate thus becoming a pollutant of the environment. And also, its fragments will form microplastics that will be consumed by living organisms.

M. Rodríguez

With information from international agencies and news media

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