The hidden costs of improper disposal

When it comes to emissions and landfill contributions, the health care industry is a significant polluter.

An estimated 748 million metric tonnes of greenhouse gases are produced annually by the combined health sectors of the United States, Australia, England, and Canada; this is more than all but the six most polluting nations in the world.

However, there is little knowledge of the environmental impact of the health sector, particularly when it comes to the correct disposal of medical waste.

Approximately 85% of hospital waste is ordinary, nonhazardous waste that can be recycled or dumped without further processing. Items including dressing sponges, incontinence pads, disposable drapes, IV bags, tubing, catheters, lab coats, and pads that won't leak liquid or semi-liquid blood are included in this category.

However, a large amount of this regular waste is mistakenly disposed of with clinical waste and either burned or cleaned in an autoclave before being dumped.

Unnecessary extra processing of general waste is more costly for health systems and the environment. The majority of healthcare facilities do not routinely collect or disclose data on medical waste, making it challenging to manage these expenses. When clinical or hazardous waste is burned, a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions are produced.

According to studies, facilities can cut their clinical waste output by 75% by adding more bins and bags for recycling and general waste as well as training personnel on what belongs where.

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