Is it possible to reduce medical waste? Effective strategies for a more sustainable hospital

Medical waste management is a key challenge for hospitals due to its environmental impact and the high costs associated with its management. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 85% of hospital waste is comparable to household waste and does not represent a biohazard, which means that with the right strategy, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce their waste footprint.

Reducing medical waste is not only an environmental issue, but also an economic and operational one. Efficient management can reduce costs, optimize resources and improve staff and patient safety. Below, we explore the most effective strategies to achieve this.

1. Waste audits: the first step to efficient waste management

Before implementing any waste reduction program, it is essential to know what type of waste is generated and in what volumes. Hospital waste audits make it possible to:

• Identify reduction opportunities in different areas of the hospital.

• Improve segregation at the point of origin.

• Detect over-classification of regulated waste, which unnecessarily raises disposal costs.

  
  

Conducting periodic audits helps to establish clear metrics and monitor progress toward more efficient hospital waste management.

2.Reduction at source: sustainable procurement and optimization of input use

A key strategy for minimizing waste is to reduce the amount of disposable inputs and opt for reusable alternatives wherever possible. Some approaches include:

• Buying supplies in bulk to reduce the use of unnecessary packaging.

• Avoiding materials that are difficult to recycle or have a high environmental impact, such as PVC and expanded polystyrene.

  
  

3. Implementation of recycling and reuse programs

Many materials generated in hospitals can be recycled, but the key lies in proper segregation. According to studies, more than 50% of hospital waste is composed of paper and cardboard, which can be recycled if properly segregated.

Other strategies include:

• Separating recyclable plastics such as irrigation bottles and polypropylene sterilization wrappers.

• Implement recycling programs for specific materials in areas with high volume generation, such as laboratories and operating rooms.

• Encourage the use of reusable containers for medical waste instead of single-use bags and boxes.

  
  

4. Correct segregation: key to avoid overclassification of regulated wastes

One of the most costly mistakes in hospital waste management is the over-classification of common waste as hazardous or biological waste. The disposal cost of these wastes can be up to 10 times higher than that of conventional waste.

To optimize segregation, it is important to:

• Locate medical waste containers only in areas where they are actually generated.

• Clearly label containers and train personnel in their correct use.

• Implement visual barriers or access restrictions to hazardous waste containers to prevent incorrect waste from being deposited.

5. Education and training of personnel

Lack of knowledge is one of the main barriers to efficient hospital waste management. Studies have shown that less than 1% of healthcare personnel fully understand waste disposal processes and costs.

An effective education program should include:

• Ongoing training in waste segregation and proper use of containers.

• Visual materials at strategic points to remind best practices.

• Incentives or recognition to encourage staff participation in waste reduction.

6. Use of innovative technologies for waste management

Technology also plays a key role in reducing hospital waste. Some innovative solutions include:

• Smart containers that prevent mixing of waste through opening restriction systems.

• Washing and reuse of medical waste containers, reducing the use of disposable plastics by 33%.

• Implementation of digital records to monitor waste flow and optimize waste management.

Conclusion

Reducing medical waste is an achievable goal for hospitals that implement appropriate strategies, from audits and sustainable purchasing to education and technology. These actions not only benefit the environment, but also generate significant economic savings and improve safety in healthcare facilities.