PADI introduces face masks made from recycled ocean plastic


Maldives
PUBLISHED April 26, 2020

Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) has launched face masks made from plastic water bottles that once polluted oceans as a protection against global pandemic, coronavirus (COVID-19).

 

The face masks were made in partnership with RashR, a water sports clothing company that sells eco-friendly rash vests with custom designs, if desired. The reusable masks come with five replacement filters and can be purchased for USD 20.40. PADI said that the price was decided considering the cost it takes to make each mask.

 

Designed based on sea creatures such as, whale sharks, manta rays and the great white sharks, the masks are available for pre-order in five unique designs and sizes are also included to fit children of ages 4 to 10.

 

The demand for the masks has skyrocketed with 15,000 pre-orders, currently both the companies are increasing production to restock fast.

 

Speaking to CNN, Lisa Nicklin, Vice President of Consumer Marketing at PADI Worldwide said, "We are not profiting from this product, we're very much a heart-and-soul organization. We care about the ocean and our diver community, so we wanted to be able to put our hands on our hearts and say that we're not profiting off this difficult time." 

 

According to PADI, the current number of orders has led to the removal and reuse of 1,267 pounds of ocean waste. Nicklin commented, "We underestimated how popular they would be". She further urges purchasing these reusable masks from PADI and others that is guaranteed to provide protection from the virus while surgical masks and N95 respirator masks can be reserved for medical professionals working at the front lines of the crisis.


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