Masks and gloves: The silent impact of pandemic waste on marine life

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has determined a global health crisis. To control its spread, countries implemented several measures including social distancing and mask-wearing. Single-use face masks, gloves, and face shields made from various synthetic materials can significantly accumulate in the marine environment, along with other substances such as plasticizers, lubricants, and stabilizers, many of which are classified as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). This study investigates the potential impacts of Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) on marine environment after artificial weathering in synthetic seawater for 1, 3, and 7 days at room temperature and 50 °C. Raman spectroscopy revealed the release of polymeric additives such as plasticizers from polypropylene- and nitrile-based materials. Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Total Carbon (TC) analyses showed a time-dependent increase in organic content, with the highest concentrations recorded in FFP2 mask leachates after 7 days. Acute toxicity assays using Artemia franciscana indicated elevated mortality in juvenile and metanauplii stages, particularly for leachates from masks. Molecular analysis further showed up- or down-regulation of defensome-related genes (e.g., hsp26, hsp60, hsp70, COXI, COXIII, NADH, ZMP) following exposure, suggesting stress responses linked to contaminant exposure. These findings provide critical insights into the environmental risks posed by PPE-derived contaminants and underscore the need for effective disposal strategies to mitigate long-term marine impacts.