Notes

The use of face masks was made compulsory during the covid pandemic and while this is no longer the case their use among the general population is still relatively common. While this is good for preventing the spread of disease a major problem is with pollution from discarded masks. One option would be to use biodegradable masks made from natural fibres. This review looks at Snake Plant fibres as such a natural source.

The Snake Plant, or Sansevieria Trifasciatia, is a member of the lily family. It is native to West Africa but is commonly found in the Philippines. The plant is well known for its ability to remove toxins from the air but also for its fibres which are very strong. These fibres can be used to make textiles and rope amongst other things. They are not only strong but cheap and renewable. The extraction of fibres from the Snake Plant is not too difficult and they can be pressed into fabric and then shaped as cloth face masks.

The use of face masks is beneficial for preventing the spread of disease but causes pollution with discarded masks. The use of masks made from the fibre of the Snake Plant provides a durable and cheap alternative that has the advantage of being biodegradable and from a renewable resource.