A growing global environmental crisis about how to deal with disposable face masks has not yet reached B.C., according to recycling officials.

Both the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) and Recycle BC said the issue has not yet shown up on their radars when contacted by Black Press Media.

Last week, media reports emerged in the UK of the public throwing away 53 million masks each day.

The huge number of face masks being put into a bin or dropped on the street is raising concerns about the number of which might be leaking into rivers and the sea, said Charlotte Green, with the waste company TradeWaste.co.uk.

91裸聊视频淚f you walk around any street now you will see disposable face masks being blown around with leaves in the gutter 91裸聊视频� they are the new cigarette butt 91裸聊视频� people are chucking them after use,91裸聊视频� Green said.

91裸聊视频淲e know that 53 million are being sent to the landfill each day 91裸聊视频� but just how many ends up elsewhere is the very scary part.91裸聊视频�

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Green said disposable masks contain ear loops and metal pieces used to grip the nose which was often intact when masks are discarded, raising fears they could become entangled around animals and wildlife, especially when they end up in watercourses.

Rae Stewart, waste reduction facilitator for RDCO, said there are no Central Okanagan recycling options for disposable face masks at this time.

While the public is advised to dispose of those masks in the garbage destined for the landfill and not the recycle carts, Stewart said reusable cloth masks would be a preferred option from their perspective 91裸聊视频� readily available, reusable, cost-effective, sustainable and customizable.

91裸聊视频淒isposable masks have their place, but not for everyday use/wear,91裸聊视频� Stewart said.

David Lefebvre, director, public affairs west for Recycle BC, echoed Stewart91裸聊视频檚 sentiments, saying disposable masks are not accepted in their recycling program.

91裸聊视频淲e are not mandated to collect them and they present a health and safety concern for collection and processing staff who must remove them,91裸聊视频� said Lefebvre.

91裸聊视频淎s far as recycling options, we have not come across any of note.91裸聊视频�