# Biodegradable Face Masks UBC Recently Launched Compostable, Made-in-Canada N95 Masks By Grace Mahas | Published 2020-05-27 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/n95-masks References: [bc.ctvnews](https://bc.ctvnews.ca/biodegradable-made-in-canada-n95-mask-being-developed-at-ubc-1.4948505) Researches at the [University of British Columbia](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biodegradable-glitter1) (UBC) recently announced the development of a new [compostable N95 face mask](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ebcare-mask), made from local wood fibers such as pine, spruce, cedar. As more consumers purchase and wear these masks in an effort to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, many have noted the detrimental environmental impact of the increased use of these masks. "It's really shocking to see how many of these current masks and gloves end up in the environment, and eventually they will end up as microplastics in the oceans. The sustainable use of wood, in this case, fibers to make filters, makes a lot of sense," noted UBC BioProducts Institute director Orlando Rojas. The prototypes are currently in the midst of being tested, and researches announced plans to apply for Health [Canada](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/canadian-food-industry) certification shortly. Image Credit: CTV, UBC ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.7/10 - Popularity: 94% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Compostable Face Masks:** Developing compostable face masks made from sustainable materials presents an opportunity to reduce environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices. - **Local Sourcing:** Utilizing locally sourced materials, such as wood fibers, for the production of face masks creates a sustainable supply chain and reduces carbon footprint. - **Health Canada Certification:** Seeking certification from Health Canada for compostable face masks ensures quality and safety standards, providing reassurance to consumers and opening up new market opportunities. ### Where This Applies - **Healthcare:** The healthcare industry can embrace compostable face masks as a sustainable alternative to traditional single-use masks, promoting environmental responsibility while ensuring patient safety. - **Sustainability:** The sustainability industry can leverage the development of compostable face masks as a solution to reduce waste and harmful environmental impact, aligning with their core values. - **Manufacturing:** Manufacturing companies can explore the production of compostable face masks using locally sourced materials, tapping into a growing market demand for eco-friendly products. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Facemask Upcycling Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upcycled-facemasks.md) - [Eco-Friendly Covid Test Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/surescreen-diagnostics.md) - [Eco-Conscious COVID-19 Testing Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecoconscious-covid19-testing-kit.md) - [Eco-Friendly Hygiene Wipes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/freshist-debuts1.md) - [Copper-Infused Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aebl-epion.md) - [Corn Fiber Smoking Filters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moose-labs.md) - [Sustainable Wooden Cutlery](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compostable-wooden-cutlery.md) - [Sustainable Anti-Bacterial Wipes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biom.md) - [Hydrating Gel-Based Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instantlift-express-revitalizing-mask.md)