COVID-era masks morph into microplastic time bombs, threatening land and sea

Single-use COVID-19 masks are causing environmental problems as they decompose into microplastics. A study found that masks release pollutants in water quickly, with filtering facepieces releasing more particles than surgical masks. These particles, mostly polypropylene, persist for decades and contain harmful chemicals. With billions of masks used monthly during the pandemic, experts call for biodegradable alternatives and better disposal methods to mitigate environmental impact.