An estimated 1.8 billion face masks are being discarded nationwide each month, raising fears among medics of a further spread of Covid-19.

The Department of Pollution Control (DPD) is in discussion with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other provinces to encourage residents to follow correct disposal guidelines.

The authorities have found an increasing number of used face masks being thrown away with normal household garbage, said the DPD.

Discarded masks that are tainted with infection expose garbage collectors to a high risk of contracting Covid-19 and further spreading the disease.

From June 1 to Dec 31 last year, 17.8 tonnes of face masks were collected from 2,690 locations nationwide, according to DPD figures.

The DPD says the amount of discarded face masks is set to increase this year.

If everyone in Thailand throws away one mask a day, the amount of monthly discarded masks will be more than 1.8 billion.

Bangkok alone produces more than 20 tonnes of infected garbage a day, mostly masks picked up from hospitals treating Covid-19 patients, and field hospitals.

The DPD suggested a special bin be used for masks. People should also fold the masks in half and tighten them with a string before dropping them into the bin. Every 3-4 days the masks should be gathered and placed inside a plastic bag with the opening tightened with string.

Then the bag should be labelled as infected garbage.