E-Mail
IMAGE: Microscope image of microfibres released from children s mask: the colourful fibres are from the cartoon patterns view more
Credit: Swansea University
Swansea University scientists have uncovered potentially dangerous chemical pollutants that are released from disposable face masks when submerged in water.
The research reveals high levels of pollutants, including lead, antimony, and copper, within the silicon-based and plastic fibres of common disposable face masks.
The work is supported by the Institute for Innovative Materials, Processing and Numerical Technologies (IMPACT) and the SPECIFIC Innovation & Knowledge Centre
Project lead Dr Sarper Sarp of Swansea University College of Engineering said: All of us need to keep wearing masks as they are essential in ending the pandemic. But we also urgently need more research and regulation on mask production, so we can reduce any risks to the environment and human health .
A National SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Wastewater Surveillance Programme, that has been developed by a specialist team, with input from the Health Protection Surveill.
Minesto raises SEK 161.6m through fully subscribed warrants program
STOCKHOLM, May 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/
The warrants program TO3 in Minesto AB has been successfully completed. The program was fully subscribed, which means that Minesto adds SEK 161.6 million in proceeds before issue costs to secure the company s commercial expansion. A total of 10,236,653 new shares in Minesto were subscribed for through the warrants program, corresponding to an exercise rate of 99.1 percent. It is very satisfying that the TO3 program was fully subscribed. This contributes to a strong financial position and creates the right conditions for converting Minesto s world-leading competitive advantages in marine energy into industrial value. We are now focusing on large-scale commercial expansion together with existing and new electric utility customers and other stakeholders in renewable energy production. Continued expansion is ensured in our existing projects in the Faroe Islands and in Wales and
Unemployment benefits have expired or are about to expire soon for thousands of people who lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic, and in each of the coming months Estonia is set to see thousands of more people join the ranks of those who have no income at all, it appears from an analysis by the Praxis think-tank.
The study said during the crisis Estonia has focused on maintaining employment and preventing the rise in unemployment. Wage costs have been reimbursed, provided that no redundancies are made during and in the months following the payout of the compensation.