These face masks are plantable and plant-based to help manage the pandemic's environmental impact

Do you want to help lessen the COVID-19 pandemic's environmental impact, one face mask at a time?

A Batangas-based group has come up with an eco-friendly face mask that is not only biodegradable but "plantable" as well!

According to Figtree Farms, their masks are made from abaca paper mixed with plant seeds like chili peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants so you can grow them in your garden.

All the masks are also handcrafted, giving livelihood to wives of sugarcane farmers in Batangas amid the pandemic.

"When you throw [your masks] away you, can put it into the earth and in a few days, tadah! You have baby plants growing," Figtree Plantable Masks unit head Mary Reyes said.

Meanwhile, a face mask designed by a 19-year-old in General Santos City makes use of wax extracted from taro leaves to make it water-repellant and add an extra layer of protection.

"Kasi kulang ng protection ang reusable face mask when you compare it to sa surgical face mask. 'Yung taro, 'yun nu'n 'yung kanyang added protection or layer," Kiara Cartojano explained.

The rapid increase of medical waste is one of the many global concerns posed by COVID-19, apart from the rising death toll and economic damage.

So let's do our part and keep finding ways to make living in the new normal more sustainable! — LA, GMA News