During COVID-19, 193 countries generated 8M tons of pandemic-related plastic wasteโ26,000 tons ended up in oceans, beaches, and seabeds. Hospitals accounted for 87% of this, individuals 8%, with masks, gloves, and PPE contributing heavily. The surge worsened global plastic pollution, threatening wildlife and the environment, while most countries struggled to manage the waste, with Asia, Europe, South America, Africa, and North America as major contributors.
Covid waste is polluting oceans; Discarded masks, PPE kits, gloves end up at seashores| WION Climate
