The impacts of plastic waste from personal protective equipment used during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The period from 2019 to 2022 has been defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an unprecedented demand for and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). However, the disposal of PPE without considering its environmental impact and proper waste management practices has become a growing concer...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Cubas, Anelise Leal Vieira, Moecke, Elisa Helena Siegel, Provin, Ana Paula, Dutra, Ana Regina de Aguiar, Machado, Marina de Medeiros, Gouveia, Isabel Cristina
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2023
País:Brasil
Institución:Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP)
Repositorio:Repositório Institucional da UFOP
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:repositorio.ufop.br:123456789/18809
Acceso en línea:https://www.repositorio.ufop.br/handle/123456789/18809
https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15153151
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:COVID-19
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Plastics wastes
Descripción
Sumario:The period from 2019 to 2022 has been defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an unprecedented demand for and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). However, the disposal of PPE without considering its environmental impact and proper waste management practices has become a growing concern. The increased demand for PPE during the pandemic and associated waste management practices have been analyzed. Additionally, the discussion around treating these residues and exploring more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable or reusable PPE, is crucial. The extensive use of predominantly non-degradable plastics in PPE has led to their accumulation in landfills, with potential consequences for marine environments through the formation of microplastics. Therefore, this article seeks to establish a connection between these issues and the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the importance of efficient management aligned with sustainable development objectives to address these emerging challenges and ensure a more sustainable future.