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Conversion from single use to reusable in nephrology care
Maryvonne Hourmant1, Didier Aguilera2, Philippe Carenco3
1Service de néphrologie et d’immunologie clinique, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
Nephrologie & Therapeutique
|March 11, 2025
Summary
Replacing disposable nephrology supplies with reusable options reduces greenhouse gas emissions. However, increased water usage from cleaning may offset these environmental benefits, requiring careful consideration of sustainability practices.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Nephrology
- Healthcare Sustainability
Background:
- The increasing focus on sustainability in healthcare necessitates evaluating the environmental impact of medical materials.
- Disposable materials in nephrology present a significant waste stream.
- Reusable alternatives are being explored to mitigate environmental concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the environmental impact of replacing disposable with reusable care materials in nephrology.
- To highlight the benefits of reusable materials concerning greenhouse gas emissions.
- To inform nephrologists about sustainable practices and upcoming innovations in material reuse.
Main Methods:
- Literature review comparing the environmental footprint of disposable versus reusable nephrology supplies.
- Analysis of greenhouse gas emissions associated with material use and sterilization.
- Consideration of water consumption in washing and sterilization processes.
Main Results:
- Reusable materials demonstrate an advantage over disposable ones in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- The environmental benefit of reusable materials can be diminished by increased water consumption during cleaning and sterilization.
- Existing recommendations support the use of reusable materials for individual protection in operating rooms.
Conclusions:
- Nephrologists should adopt measures to enhance sustainability in their practice.
- Awareness of innovations in reusable medical materials is crucial for environmental management in nephrology.
- A comprehensive life cycle assessment, including water usage, is necessary to fully evaluate the sustainability of reusable nephrology materials.
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