As more residents use personal protective equipment (PPE) to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) advises the public that the increase in improperly discarded gloves and masks is an environmental concern as well as a health concern in the territory.
VIWMA urges everyone to dispose of these materials properly during this pandemic because it is even more crucial now, then ever before.
No one should discard used plastic masks or gloves in grocery store parking lots or anywhere else around the islands. No one should be tossing these materials out of cars to have them land on the roadsides or get stuck in the bushes. Discarded PPE is contaminated PPE. This unnecessary litter increases the risk of exposure to COVID-19 and spoils the beauty of these beautiful islands.
Remember, when finished with gloves and masks, dispose of them properly in a trash receptable. All of us can do their part to slow the spread of the coronavirus by practicing sanitary behavior, properly discarding all masks, gloves and wipes and following social distancing guidelines.
For more information, contact Communications Management at 340-643-0410 or email communications@viwma.org. Also, follow VIWMA on Facebook, LinkedIn and/or Twitter.
