Waste and Recycling During the Pandemic
Monday, November 30, 2020
COVID‑19 caused major shifts in plastic production, consumption, and waste. Global demand surged for PPE—masks, gloves, gowns, bottled sanitizers. WHO estimated monthly needs at 89 million medical masks, 76 million gloves, and 1.6 million protective goggles during efforts to curb spread. Hygiene requirements and the rise of take‑away and online shopping increased single‑use plastics and packaging. While these items played a role in preventing transmission, the additional production, consumption, and disposal could challenge the EU’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution and move toward a circular plastics system.