Masks used to safeguard the public health during the COVID-19 pandemic are primarily made of non-woven material such as polypropylene, which is around 20 to 25 grams per square meter in density. Polyester or polycarbonate are other frequently-used materials in protective masks. While they effectively block bacteria, they are liquid-resistant, plastic-based products with a long afterlife; Thus, after disposal, they end up in oceans or landfills. Medical masks are not supposed to be worn for longer than one day. Therefore, their disposal leads to a large quantity of clinical waste. 

The population is at significant risk of detrimental impacts from exposure to medical waste. As the governments advise students to stay far from schools, the frontliners have to fulfill their duty of keeping cities clean by directly working at the field exposed to the virus. This puts them in one of the most vulnerable positions, most susceptible to the virus. 

As the pandemic rapidly spreads across the globe, light will soon shine on medical waste treatment management and its practical and effective measures. Private waste management firms and health institutions in countries are already employing services that specialize in coronavirus decontamination. It is equally crucial for the governments to find solutions against the harmful environmental impacts of COVID-19. At the same time, each individual has the responsibility to conform to the necessary guidelines of disposals of masks and other medical gear. After all, it is only through goodwill and mutual empathy that we will see the world emerge stronger from this pandemic.