As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have become more conscious about avoiding illness. However, in doing so, we have also had to consider the environmental impact of new types of waste. From recycling disposable masks to properly disposing of cloth masks, we are navigating how to prevent PPE pollution. There is concern about the potential pollution caused by the use of plastic bottles of hand sanitizer and the exposure to toxins from cloth masks. Despite these concerns, it is important to keep the environmental cost of staying well in perspective, especially when compared to the environmental impact of falling ill.
Disposable PPE
The use of disposable masks and gloves in healthcare settings is staggering. For example, a single intensive care hospital worker may use 10 simple masks and 340 individual gloves per day. In an outpatient setting, healthcare workers may use 50 gloves and at least two simple masks daily. During a pandemic, the usage of N95 masks increases tenfold.
Hospital Waste
Hospital waste extends beyond PPE and includes various disposable items that contribute to environmental pollution. The packaging and disposal of medical supplies, including medications and single-use syringes, result in a significant amount of unrecyclable plastic waste. Additionally, hospitals are energy-intensive facilities that contribute to large amounts of electricity and natural gas consumption.
Biohazards and Other Special Wastes
Hospital waste contains infectious, toxic, and radioactive materials, leading to higher disposal costs and environmental risks. Disposing of regulated medical waste requires careful handling and treatment, which poses additional environmental challenges.
Dangerous Disposal
The proper disposal of medical waste is complex and poses environmental risks, such as the contamination of water sources and the release of hazardous chemicals. Incineration and sterilization, the current methods of medical waste disposal, also have adverse environmental impacts.
Be Well
While hospitals can implement waste-reduction measures, individuals can also contribute to environmental health by supporting sustainable healthcare practices. From using tree-free tissues to properly disposing of medications, there are steps individuals can take to minimize their environmental impact while staying healthy.
Editor’s Note: This article, originally published Dec. 20, 2021, was updated in February 2024.
