Sustainability in Engineering: Fighting the ‘huge environmental disaster’ of disposable masks

It is an unfortunate fact that solving one problem can often lead to another issue popping up elsewhere. Face masks and other PPE played a vital role in restricting the spread of Covid-19, for example – but after a fleeting, one-time use, they were destined for landfill, incineration, and environmental pollution.

“It’s a huge environmental disaster, which goes way beyond Covid,” said Radhika Srinivasan this morning (28 September), speaking at Sustainability in Engineering. “It’s estimated that half a million masks get used every 10 seconds. And as we know, the problem doesn't stop with masks. Now add hundreds of thousands of disposable surgical gowns, hairnets, coveralls, aprons, all piling up and getting sent to landfill or incinerators every minute.

“In fact, more than 60% of the NHS carbon footprint is based within the NHS supply chain, and this is just not an acceptable situation. We've made it Ecotextura's mission to change it.”  

The CEO and founder of Ecotextura aims to tackle the issue with sustainable alternatives to plastic-based PPE. Initially inspired by hospital visits in 2015, during which she was shocked by the sheer amount of single-use materials, the design and materials-focused mechanical engineer knew that her company could make a significant impact during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Instead of plastic, Ecotextura aims to provide medical standard protection with all its PPE using renewable fibres and materials, preventing the release of microplastics into the environment and enabling recycling or composting after use. The firm has released compostable masks and aprons, with plans for more products in future. 

“Design doesn’t just stop with sustainability, we need to give a very holistic solution to hospitals,” Srinivasan said. “We need to offer them the best alternative that you can get, with regards to inclusivity, design, ergonomics.”

Srinivasan discussed her project and wider issues around eco-friendly engineering with Sally Sudworth, chair of the Women's Engineering Society climate emergency group, and Rachel Gomes MBE, professor of water and resource processing at the University of Nottingham. The full webinar is now available to view on-demand.

Become a net zero expert at Sustainability in Engineering (26-30 September), part of the Engineering Futures webinar series. Register for FREE now.

Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.