4 ms·

I don't think masks filter the kind of pollution that is really harmful (fumes, not particles).

• Mediterraneo10 6y ago
  They must have some effect, inasmuch as cyclists and motorbike drivers in highly polluted cities like Kathmandu and Delhi wear at least a cloth over their mouths for their own comfort.
  • brokenmachine 6y ago
    People also hang beads and crosses in their cars. But last time I checked, crosses and beads don't add anything to a car's safety rating. Maybe to stop from swallowing flying insects?
    • kaybe 6y ago
      (A small detour: In Japan you can buy traffic safety charms that are reflective. They might work for pedestrians and people on bicycles - the only charms I've seen so far that look usable.)
    • Mediterraneo10 6y ago
      Try cycling in Delhi or Kathmandu without a mask and then tell me a face covering doesn’t do anything but a placebo effect. Yes, without a high-grade mask people are still breathing in dangerous fumes, but putting something, anything over your face will still block certain larger particulates that would otherwise leave you choking and angry at the whole experience.