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Healthcare Waste: An Infectious Issue?

The NHS produces an average of 250,000 tonnes of waste a year at a cost of some £40+ million. Quantities of healthcare waste and the associated treatment and disposal costs are on the increase. Coupled with budget constraints within the system, the NHS now more than ever needs to be prudent with its use of resources.


Specific waste management reviews

Reviews of waste operations in six NHS Trusts across Yorkshire and Humber were carried out earlier this year by Resource Futures. Trusts were shown how to manage their waste more sustainably whilst saving money. One acute Trust was shown that diverting aluminium foil, food, paper towels, garden maintenance waste, glass, cans and plastic bottles away from landfill has the potential to deliver savings in excess of £22,000 per year, as well as saving 585 tonnes of carbon.

Guidance for all

Generic guidance was developed by Resource Futures to provide practical advice on waste and recycling that can be used by any NHS Trust in the Yorkshire and the Humber Region. Topics in the guidance include why be more resource efficient, systems for monitoring and managing waste and complying with legislation. Resource Futures also provided guidance on how to develop an effective communication campaign which supports the implementation of new systems, setting out ways in which to engage with staff, patients and visitors and so promote behavioural change.

Working with local authorities

Defra are currently reviewing of Schedule 2 of the Controlled Waste Regulations could result in the legislation being amended. With the consultation opening early in 2010, it is essential for officers to remain up to date on the issue. The National Household Hazardous Waste Forum, a membership based organisation managed by Resource Futures, will be holding its next seminar on 24th February, focused specifically on the issues of healthcare waste in the community. The event will include a presentation from Defra on the issues surrounding Schedule 2.

For more information contact:
Emma Kerrigan
Senior Consultant, Research and Technical Team
emma.kerrigan@resourcefutures.co.uk | 07903 868 265

 

Project Synopses

Top Recycler! Waste Education Project

Working in Cambridgeshire primary schools to support the waste partnership's aim to increase dry recycling.

Antrim HWRC and Bring Site review

Resource Futures carried out a comprehensive review of the staffed Household Waste Recycling Centres (HRCs) and unstaffed Community Recycling Points (CRPs) managed by Antrim Borough Council.

Recycling in Flats Every Day, in Bristol

Encouraging recycling among residents living in flats

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