Residents encouraged to wear reusable face masks

Residents in Blackburn with Darwen are being asked to opt for reusable masks to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Latest research shows that 129 billion single-use masks are being used around the world each month.

And, with low cost alternatives available for reusable options, the Council is encouraging residents to re-think the masks they use and even have a go at making one at home.

For those who still need to use a single-use mask, residents are being urged to make sure they’re disposed of correctly.  This comes on the back of complaints about masks being found littered in the streets and regularly discarded in supermarket trolleys.

Once a single-use mask has been worn, residents should dispose of it in a litter bin or take it home and place it in their burgundy bin.

It’s important to also wash or sanitise hands after handling a used mask.

Councillor Jim Smith, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s Executive Member for Environment said:

It’s important to wear masks to stop the spread of coronavirus. We want all residents to be wearing them where they can, but we know they’re having a huge effect globally on the sheer amount that is being thrown away each day.

We also know that they can be expensive for our residents to buy and so we’re urging people to look at the reusable options available – especially as we know there is no quick fix for this pandemic.

If you need to rely on the single-use option, then it’s important residents dispose of them considerately – not only for the impact it will have on stopping the spread of the virus but also the environmental impact too.

Leaving masks for other people to clean up puts key workers like supermarket staff and street cleaners at risk of catching coronavirus.

Masks that can be washed and worn again, reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill, whilst saving money too.

If you’re feeling creative, it’s easy to make your own reusable face covering, some don’t even require any sewing skills.

Follow the links below and watch our video to find out more.

• UK Government – how to make your own face mask
• BBC – DIY face covering
• The Guardian – DIY non-medical mask

Don’t forget, masks need to be worn when entering Council buildings unless you’re exempt due to age, health or another condition.  Face coverings can be removed when exercising in leisure centres if needed.

The Government website has guidance on how to wear a mask safely.