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The Role Of
Biodegradable Materials In Reducing Medical Plastics Waste
In recent years, the growing concerns over
environmental sustainability have prompted a critical examination of the impact
of plastic waste on our planet. Nicolle Portilla, marketing manager, ZeroWaste
Partnerships and RTS, explores the importance of materials' roles in reducing
medical plastic waste. While plastics have undoubtedly revolutionised various
industries, the healthcare sector, for example, there are many issues that go
along with it, such as medical plastics waste.
This waste includes everything from syringes to IV bags, packaging, and more.
All of these contribute to the growing burden on landfills and the issues of
non-biodegradable materials.
Luckily though, there is hope in the form of biodegradable materials. They offer
a promising future that, if utilised well, can help address this issue.
Overview of the bio-based and biodegradable plastics
Bio-based and biodegradable plastics have emerged as innovative alternatives to
conventional plastics, offering a more sustainable approach to packaging and
product design.
Unlike traditional plastics derived from fossil fuels, bio-based plastics are
derived from renewable sources, like plants, starches, or agricultural waste.
These materials are a valuable opportunity to
reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources and minimise the carbon
footprint associated with plastic.
Biodegradable plastics possess the ability to break down and decompose
naturally. They can be broken down by microorganisms, such as bacteria and
fungi, into simpler compounds that are reintegrated into the natural environment
without leaving anything behind. On the other hand, conventional plastics can
persist for hundreds of years.
The incorporation of bio-based and biodegradable plastics in the healthcare
industry holds immense potential for reducing the environmental impact of
medical plastic waste.
These materials can be tailored to meet specific requirements, offering
comparable performance to conventional plastics in terms of strength,
durability, and barrier properties. From medical device
components to packaging, biodegradable alternatives provide opportunities for
creative and sustainable solutions.
Research into biodegradable plastics and what can be done now to restrict
plastic usage to sustainable levels
Researchers and scientists around the world are actively engaged in advancing
the field of biodegradable plastics, aiming to develop innovative materials that
are not only environmentally friendly but also meet the requirements of the
healthcare industry.
The areas of research that are being pursued include enhancing the
biodegradability of these plastics by optimising their chemical composition and
structure. This includes exploring additives and blends to accelerate the
breakdown process, ensuring that the materials degrade efficiently.
Scientists are also working to improve the functional properties of these
plastics to make them suitable for a wide range of medical scenarios. This
includes their mechanical strength, barrier
properties, and stability to ensure they meet the necessary performance
standards.
Restricting plastic usage
While research and development efforts are essential to advancing biodegradable
plastics, immediate action is also required to restrict plastic usage to
sustainable levels.
This includes promoting the prioritisation of reusable materials in healthcare
facilities and replacing disposable plastic products with biodegradable
alternatives.
Increasing awareness among healthcare professionals, staff, and patients about
the environmental impact of plastic waste is crucial, as well. This can be done
through several types of outreach, such as sharing best practices, supporting
research initiatives, and collectively working towards sustainable solutions can
accelerate progress in reducing plastic usage.
One of the ways that the healthcare industry can make a major change is through
their procurement policies. Organisations can establish guidelines that
encourage suppliers to provide environmentally friendly alternatives and
evaluate products based on their life cycle impacts.
Its also important to consider what legislative measures might be taken.
Implementing policies that promote the use of these materials, incentivise
recycling, and more, can help discourage public consumption of plastic.
Reasons why biodegradable plastics benefit the environment
There are a number of reasons why biodegradable plastics offer benefits to
environmental conservation and sustainability. Here are a few key reasons:
Reduction in plastic pollution
Conservation of nonrenewable resources
Decreased energy consumption
Landfill space conservation
https://www.medicalplasticsnews.com/medical-plasticsindustry-insights/medical-plastics-sustainability-insights/therole-of-biodegradable-materials-in-reducing-medical-plas/ |
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