A framework for assessing the circularity and technological maturity of plastic waste management strategies in hospitals

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.127169
• Publication Date: 2021-04-20T01:15:53Z
• Authors: C.A. Fletcher; R. St. Clair; M. Sharmina
• Keywords: Plastic Waste

Consumer single-use plastic waste has received much attention from the public, policy-makers and researchers. However, management of such in medical settings been less well examined. This article reviews existing evidence on strategies within hospitals, with a particular focus plastics. The develops 'Waste Hierarchy-Technology Readiness Levels' framework assesses each strategy against it, indicating maturity technology strategy's position Waste Hierarchy, addition to its relative adherence circular economy principles. Findings show that currently dominant include disposal landfill, incineration recycling, while alternative reduction, reuse, bioremediation chemical recycling. Most reviewed are at high level readiness low demonstrating hospital tend be based mature technologies suggesting need for more innovative, solutions. Exceptions, which Hierarchy but an early stage development, using microbial action recycling hydrophilic solvents. review highlights disparity between levels alignment principles developed developing nations, both international collaboration sensitive specific regional contexts.