The medical disposable industry, particularly the production of disposable gloves from materials such as nitrile, latex, and vinyl, faces ecological challenges due to the low biodegradability and recyclability of these plastics. On average, a healthcare worker in medical facilities attends to approximately 13 patients per day. [1] According to the Labour Agency, nearly 1.7 million people in nursing were socially insured in 2022. This results in a daily consumption of about 22 million gloves. [2]
This report highlights the issue of inadequate disposal of disposable gloves and demonstrates how this contributes to global pollution of oceans and soils. Additionally, facts about global plastic pollution are presented to answer the initial question.
The Problem:
Medical disposable products, specifically disposable gloves, are mostly made of plastics such as nitrile, latex, and vinyl, which decompose slowly and can thus cause environmental issues. Stringent regulations and laws further complicate the disposal of contaminated disposable products.
The glove itself is not classified as 'hazardous waste' according to the European Waste Catalog (EWC) [3] and can therefore be disposed of as residual waste. It only becomes 'hazardous waste' through contamination with substances like blood or wound secretions, requiring special disposal. Improper disposal was observed more frequently during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased environmental impact from these products. [4]
According to an OECD report [5], only about 9% of plastics are recycled, while approximately 50% end up in landfills, 19% are incinerated, and 22% end up in nature uncontrollably. In 2019, 7.8 million tonnes of plastic were disposed of in terrestrial or aquatic environments, and an estimated 139 million tonnes of plastic waste currently reside in seas, oceans, and rivers.
The Solution:
It is worth noting that there is currently no complete solution to the problem. However, there are promising approaches such as the Nature Glove by AMPri. [6] Innovations are crucial for addressing global challenges, and promoting research and development is essential. Environmentally conscious advancements, such as biodegradable plastics, are small but significant steps in the right direction.
We, as experts, are aware of the disposal regulations for medical disposable gloves. However, since Germany does not provide precise figures on the waste generated by disposable products, the exact impact on the plastic waste quantity remains unclear for now. Nevertheless, we consider it our duty to participate in the development and research of biodegradable gloves. We acknowledge the global significance and aim to make a small contribution to improving the ecological balance through the use of these gloves.
The Conclusion:
The medical disposable industry
faces the challenge of developing more environmentally friendly alternatives
and raising awareness about proper disposal. The development of biodegradable
gloves is a promising approach that, along with other innovations and a culture
of research and development, can contribute to a more sustainable future. AMPri
remains committed to continuous research and making a positive impact on the
ecological balance of our planet. [7]
In conclusion, it is important to
note: Sustainable disposable gloves are by no means an illusion, but they are
also not the sole solution to a global problem. We must continue to
collaboratively create resources [8] to advance research and development. Only then
can we sustainably thrive in our industry in the long run.
The AMPri editorial team regularly produces high-quality blog posts on new product developments, research or the market situation. If you have any questions, please contact us at presse@ampri.de
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