# Reusable Recyclable Masks Masuku's Protective Face Masks Can Be Sent Back for Recycling After Use By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2021-04-05 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protective-face-masks References: [fastcompany](https://www.fastcompany.com/90619707/when-this-mask-wears-out-you-can-send-it-back-to-be-recycled-and-compost-the-filter) & [masuku](https://masuku.com/products/masuku-one-black-mesh) The need for protective face masks is creating an influx of PPE litter and Masuku is one company that's offering a solution for responsibly dealing with a product at the end of its usable life. Masuku was co-founded by Johann Boedecker, CEO of design and technology company [Pentatonic](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pentatonic-1) and model and entrepreneur Natalia Vodianova. The UK-based start-up makes face masks that go beyond offering comfort and breathability. As Boedecker describes, "The idea was to create a mask that’s at the same level as a product as consumer electronics, fashion, and other product categories are." The new Masuku One mask is comparable to an N95 mask and it boasts the ability to filter out 94% of particles. The mask includes a [compostable filter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/compostable-pipette) and the mask itself can be sent back to the company for recycling. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.0/10 - Popularity: 75% | Activity: 64% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Reusable Face Masks:** The trend of reusable face masks can lead to the development of biodegradable and recyclable materials for masks. - **Circular Economy:** The circular economy trend can lead to more companies like Masuku that offer sustainable solutions for disposing of products at the end of their usable life. - **Smart PPE:** The trend towards smart PPE can lead to the development of masks that not only protect but also offer additional benefits such as air quality monitoring. ### Where This Applies - **Sustainability:** The sustainability industry can benefit from developing better sustainable materials and solutions for PPE disposal like Masuku's masks. - **Fashion:** The fashion industry can explore the trend of fashionable face masks that can be reused and recycled to reduce waste. - **Healthcare:** The healthcare industry can leverage the trend of smart PPE and develop masks that actively monitor air quality and other indicators for protection against airborne disease risks. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Facemask Upcycling Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upcycled-facemasks.md) - [Customizable Style Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rpur-fiit.md) - [100% Recyclable Lab Coats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/recyclable-lab-coat.md) - [Eco-Conscious COVID-19 Testing Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecoconscious-covid19-testing-kit.md) - [Copper-Infused Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aebl-epion.md) - [Tech-Enabled Reusable Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/caulicups.md) - [Air-Blowing Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-mask.md) - [Aerodynamic Filtration Face Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/goa-face-protector.md) - [Recyclable Nasal Pumps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aptar-pharma.md)