Scientists sound the alarm on the deadly impacts of corona waste on animals

Vertebrates and invertebrates on land, in freshwater, and in seawater are getting entangled or trapped in corona waste. Photo: AFP

Face masks and latex gloves – two kinds of waste directly linked to the Covid-19 pandemic – are particularly harmful to animals the world over. In light of the problem, which can affect all kinds of animals, scientists are sounding the alarm, and are calling on the public to deal with their "corona waste" more responsibly or to switch to reusable masks.

While animals don't currently seem too greatly affected by SARS-CoV-2 – with recorded cases remaining very low – they are the collateral victims of this global pandemic. This is due to waste such as face masks and latex gloves, which are proving harmful for animals the world over. Two scientists have taken stock of the situation, and are calling on people to help stamp out the problem.