With the demand for PPE increasing as the pandemic continues, FPInnovations is receiving $1.3 million from the federal government for a COVID-19 response project to develop a biodegradable, sustainable filter for single-use face masks.

Consistent with Natural Resources Canada’s work plan for personal protective equipment (PPE) waste management, FPInnovations will develop the filters using sustainable and biodegradable material made from Canadian forest fibres.

Canadian pulp and paper mills will manufacture this product and provide an opportunity to diversify the forest sector’s revenue opportunities. This product has the potential for Canada to expand its markets internationally and lead the production of sustainable and environmentally friendly PPE.

“FPInnovations has been on a sprint since the beginning of the pandemic, and we are proud of the work we accomplished toward the need for a single-use face mask with consistent performance that is eco-friendly and locally produced,” says Stéphane Renou, president and chief executive officer of FPInnovations.

The investment is part of Natural Resources Canada’s Transformative Technologies Program’s contribution agreement with FPInnovations through the Forest Innovation Program, which promotes research and development on new technologies and products across Canada’s forest sector.

Canada’s forest workers are demonstrating how our natural resource sectors will help Canada rebound economically from COVID-19.

“Biodegradable masks made from Canada’s sustainably sourced forests — just one example of what FPInnovations can do. The ingenuity of Canada’s forest sector, keeping Canadians safer,” said the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.