According to National Geographic, as of Feb. 2019, there are 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic in the ocean. That statistic was recorded before COVID-19.

“I’m sure you have seen a mask floating around, just about anywhere. I think disposable gloves and masks are more impactful now because people are concerned about actually getting the virus from picking up that trash,” President of the Colorado Mesa University (CMU) Sustainability Council, Ian Thomas, said.

CMU’s Sustainability Council has a mission of educating and forming a group to change all unsustainable models, whether it be environmental, social or economic. The presence of disposable masks and gloves has presented an entirely new issue.

“It’s not just a trash problem. Obviously it is a trash problem, but it does connect to where we get our food. Those disadvantaged communities that rely on sustenance from the ocean: that’s where they get their livelihood, that’s how they support their families,” Thomas said.

Although this seems to be a problem beyond just one person, wearing reusable masks instead of disposables is a great alternative.

“The masks that the University [are] giving out [are] super comfortable and you can just go to the UC info desk, show them your MAVCard and they will give you one,” Thomas said.

Thankfully there is a relatively simple solution to reducing mask waste, but Thomas argues that many of the unsustainable models are beyond the individual’s actions.

“If people stopped driving, if they started riding bikes, then yes, that would make a difference in air quality, carbon emissions, everything,” Thomas said. “But, the main emitters aren’t individual people, it’s manufacturers [and] energy producers. Those very very large companies whose impact is hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands times larger than any individual person.”

In fact, what Thomas recommends beyond individual action such as recycling and biking is educating oneself and organizing to make a greater change. 

“Get educated. A lot of the things that are happening in our country right now, they’re all interconnected. These human systems are very prevalent, and connect every single aspect of our society,” Thomas said. “Organizing and working together to make a larger impact is much more significant than anything just one person could do.”

With more plastic in the ocean then there are people in this world, many feel the need to take action, and switching to reusable masks can be a great first step.

If you are interested in joining Sustainability Council, follow their Instagram @cmu_sustainability_council