The Environmental Impact of Disposable Surgical Packs

Planet Crisis: The Hidden Environmental Cost of Disposable Surgical Packs

But at Topmed, we care about our planet, and by now, we'd like to talk about how disposable packs can harm Earth. These packs generate a lot of garbage when doctors and nurses use them for surgeries. This garbage is sent to landfills, where it can take a long time to decompose. It can also be harmful to animals and pollute our water and soil.

The Issues with Disposable Surgical Supplies

These disposable surgical packs are all made of plastic, which is ultimately produced from oil. Producing plastic and can be energy intensive, and it can also emit toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. As we trash these packs after one time use, we are wasting all the resources taken to create them.

Surgical Waste- Plastic Waste from Surgical Packs

The plastic pollution from these packs is everywhere. It can be harmful to animals that confuse it for food and can sicken or even kill them. Plastic waste may also clog rivers and oceans, which in turn can prevent plants and animals from living in those areas.

Disposable Surgical Packs: Better Alternatives Exist

Disposable surgical packs are not the only option — there are better and more environmentally friendly alternatives. Hospitals can utilize reusable packs that can be washed and reused. They can also opt for biodegradable materials that decompose fast and don’t hurt the Earth.

Why Hospitals Should Care

Ten million reusable face mask are used in hospitals every year. They can also bring change with sustainable food options and guide their employees to less wasteful practices. Together we can help to protect the Earth for generations to come.