Mask littering pollutes the environment and threatens public health, as masks with nonwoven fabrics cannot naturally decompose, while used masks might carry the virus, Greenpeace Taiwan campaigner Chang Kai-ting (張凱婷) said. A discarded surgical mask lies on the ground somewhere in Taipei yesterday. The EPA would ask local authorities to increase patrolling and cleaning in areas in which littered masks are more likely to be found and post more notices, she added. In a statement yesterday, the Taiwan Pharmacist Association denounced the request. The association would provide pharmacists who experience similar treatment with legal counseling resources, it said, calling on people to respect medical professionals during the pandemic.

Source: Taipei Times March 14, 2020 15:56 UTC