In the face of an escalating environmental crisis, the healthcare industry is under scrutiny for its role in contributing to global waste and pollution. The production and disposal of medical waste pose significant challenges, not just for the sector but for the planet as a whole.
This month’s blog delves into the impact of medical waste on the environment, the increasing need for sustainable medical practices in Australia, and an insight into our range of eco-friendly medical supplies we offer at LFA First Response.
The environmental toll of medical waste
Medical waste encompasses a wide array of materials, from used needles and syringes to disposable gowns and packaging.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) categorises medical waste into infectious, hazardous, and general waste, with the majority falling into the infectious and hazardous categories. This waste can carry pathogens, toxic substances, and other harmful materials, necessitating stringent disposal methods to prevent contamination and the spread of disease.
How much medical waste is produced each year?
Medical waste is notoriously difficult to calculate, with many healthcare facilities and clinics not reporting the amount of waste they produce.
According to estimates from 180 Waste Group, Australia generates over 42,000 tonnes of clinical waste annually.
The disposal process of this waste has broader environmental implications, including greenhouse gas emissions from incineration, pollution from landfilling, and the potential for water and soil contamination.
What are the challenges involved in disposing of medical waste?
The primary challenges in managing medical waste include ensuring safe disposal, complying with strict regulatory standards, and the high costs associated with these processes.
Traditional disposal methods, such as incineration and landfilling, are effective in neutralising hazards, but have considerable environmental impacts. Incineration contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, while landfilling can lead to leachate, a liquid that can permeate through solid waste, contaminating water sources.
In addition, the regulatory landscape governing medical waste in Australia is complex, with requirements varying across states and territories. This complexity can lead to inconsistencies in handling and disposal practices, further complicating overall efforts to mitigate environmental impacts.
Environmental sustainability in healthcare: the move towards sustainable solutions
Recognising these challenges, there is a growing movement within the Australian healthcare sector towards adopting more sustainable practices – this relates to both the equipment and supplies they use and the way they dispose of medical waste.
Compostable medical supplies
Compostable and sustainable medical supplies are a significant advancement in adopting more sustainable practices in the healthcare sector. These products are designed to minimise environmental impact, offering an alternative to traditional, non-degradable materials. They can significantly reduce the volume of waste sent to incinerators and landfills, as they break down naturally themselves.
Our eco-friendly range at LFA First Response
At LFA First Response, we are proud to stock our eco-friendly range, which consists of biodegradable single use items and recyclable products made from paper and cardboard.
Currently we offer the following items:
- Biodegradable Denture Cups
- Biodegradable Medicine Cups
- Biodegradable Sputum Cups
- Biodegradable Vomit Bowls
- Compostable Anaesthetic Trays
- Compostable Underpads
- Compostable Injection Trays
- Compostable Instrument Trays
- Compostable Kidney Dishes
- Paper Medicine Cups
- Paper Pill Cups
- Recyclable Patient Blankets
- Disposable Towels
- Disposable Wash Mitts
- Draeger Mouthpieces (100% Recycled Plastic)
- Emesis Bowls (100% Recycled Paper)
- Single End Applicators
- Zorg Disposable Spacers (Cardboard)
These products are made from materials that are either recyclable, or that break down and return to nature under the right conditions, which in turn contributes to reducing the volume of medical waste.
By providing eco-friendly options for medical supplies, we support healthcare facilities in their transition to greener practices.
The way forward
The environmental impact of medical waste is not to be ignored, and promoting broader awareness about this impact is crucial. Transitioning to sustainable practices is not only beneficial for the planet but also aligns with the growing societal demand for environmentally responsible healthcare.
By transitioning to sustainable medical supplies, the healthcare industry can markedly decrease its environmental impact.
In addition to this, the healthcare sector must give careful consideration to the proper and mindful disposal of medical waste. This involves complying with all Australian regulations which relate to medical waste incineration, and exploring alternative methods such as microwaving, autoclaving or steaming – which produce fewer emissions.
To read more: What is Clinical Waste? The Importance of Proper Disposal Methods
LFA First Response is proud to offer eco-friendly medical supplies that meet the sector’s stringent requirements while promoting environmental sustainability. Contact our friendly team for any additional information regarding any of our eco-friendly products.
Let’s embrace the move towards eco-friendly medical supplies and set a new standard for sustainability in healthcare.
