Ecology

COVID-19 Waste Calculator

Estimate mask waste generated over time.

Calculated Output

Daily waste 8

Yearly waste 2.92

Formula: daily = masks * weight

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Values used:

2. Masks per day = 2

3. Waste per mask = 4

5. Daily waste = Masks per day x Waste per mask = 2 x 4 = 8

6. Yearly waste = 2.92

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The math behind it

daily waste = masks x grams per mask; yearly = daily x 365 / 1000 kg.

2 masks a day at 4 g each is about 2.9 kg/year.

Why do masks use plastic?

Surgical masks are mostly polypropylene, a non-biodegradable plastic.