The need for protective face masks is creating an influx of PPE litter and Masuku is one company that's offering a solution for responsibly dealing with a product at the end of its usable life. Masuku was co-founded by Johann Boedecker, CEO of design and technology company Pentatonic and model and entrepreneur Natalia Vodianova. The UK-based start-up makes face masks that go beyond offering comfort and breathability. As Boedecker describes, "The idea was to create a mask that’s at the same level as a product as consumer electronics, fashion, and other product categories are."
The new Masuku One mask is comparable to an N95 mask and it boasts the ability to filter out 94% of particles. The mask includes a compostable filter and the mask itself can be sent back to the company for recycling.
Reusable Recyclable Masks
Masuku's Protective Face Masks Can Be Sent Back for Recycling After Use
Trend Themes
1. Reusable Face Masks - The trend of reusable face masks can lead to the development of biodegradable and recyclable materials for masks.
2. Circular Economy - The circular economy trend can lead to more companies like Masuku that offer sustainable solutions for disposing of products at the end of their usable life.
3. Smart PPE - The trend towards smart PPE can lead to the development of masks that not only protect but also offer additional benefits such as air quality monitoring.
Industry Implications
1. Sustainability - The sustainability industry can benefit from developing better sustainable materials and solutions for PPE disposal like Masuku's masks.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry can explore the trend of fashionable face masks that can be reused and recycled to reduce waste.
3. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can leverage the trend of smart PPE and develop masks that actively monitor air quality and other indicators for protection against airborne disease risks.