Unfortunately items like face masks are found loose in bins, mixed recycling collections and even littered around our local environment. Face masks cannot be recycled, and can pose a significant risk of transmitting the Covid-19 virus. When used face masks make their way into recycling sorting facilities they put all the key workers there at risk.

In line with government guidance, used face masks should be securely bagged before being thrown away and if anybody in your household is isolating, you must double bag all your personal waste (including face masks, tissues etc.) and put it aside for 72 hours before presenting it for collection. If possible use washable face masks rather than disposable ones.