With the COVID-19 lockdown and strict regulations in my neighborhood slowly lifting, I decided to go a short stroll last week, however, I came across many new revelations. The pandemic has not only placed global health and billions of people at risk but has also had quite devastating impacts on marine life. What I witnessed in my short walk route is just a minor representation of a problem that is apparent all across the country. In all emirates, all members of the public are required to wear masks outside their houses, anyone failing to adhere to the measure risks a fine of AED 3000. In accordance with the awareness from the virus and rules set in place, the country has witnessed a surge in sales of disposable face masks and gloves in recent months. However, many concerns have been raised across the country regarding the environmental impact of a mountain of masks and gloves being dumped in public areas. In the span of my short walk of a few blocks, I came across a multitude of personal protective equipment being dumped on the street/canal or not correctly disposed of in the trash.

Most PPE materials are solely based on plastic and can be a huge threat to not only our lives but aquatic life too. Gloves, masks, and wipes are the most common items found on the street and near beaches. While walking near the canal I came across more gloves than masks. What shocked me the most was how the gloves were shaped in the water when I spotted them. At first look, I presumed they were jellyfish, but upon looking closely I realized how harmful it would be for an aquatic animal to make the same mistake I made and proceed to consume the plastic.

On the streets, masks and wipes were more commonly spotted and upon research, I found out that when these are discarded into the environment, they have access to the sewage systems where it can break down into microplastics that attract pesticides and harmful chemicals. When coming in contact with fish and other sea creatures, the plastic along with the chemicals are consumed. 

Adding to that, a common misconception that exists in society is that the plastic in gloves and masks can be recycled to be made something better. Even if they are plastic, they are not treated as curbside recycling. What is important to note is that all used personal protective equipment is to be kept aside in a sealed bag for regular garbage collection. Waste management employees work more closely with recycled materials as it goes through a sorting line for quality control. If at all any employee comes across infected masks or gloves, it is a risk of their health and safety. Hence, to prevent unsuspecting healthy adults to come in contact and become carriers of the infection, it is vital to know where to dispose your waste.

This problem was something I found prevailing in my country, however, the government and health workers are quick to act and have set new rules and regulations in place for the betterment of society. Residents caught littering roads and streets with the protective equipment will incur a Dh1,000 penalty and will have six points added to their driving records. These punishments are in line with previously set rules so that people understand the environmental impact of the virus too.

photo credit - sustainability-times.com