A review on recent developments in sustainable healthcare waste management

This study addresses specific research gaps in the literature regarding HCW management by systematically analyzing the integration of sustainability and material circularity. It employs the PRISMA method and bibliometric analysis with VOSviewer, providing a clear structure for understanding current research trends. In this context, six thematic groups were identified: (i) management for decision-making, (ii) circular economy, (iii) COVID-19 pandemic, (iv) risk analysis, (v) governance, and (vi) disposal and treatment. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp rise in hazardous waste generation, requiring urgent policy adaptations, stricter strategies, and adequate investments to mitigate health risks and environmental impacts. Adopting the circular economy in HCW management requires effective regulation and cross-sector collaboration. To reduce costs, mitigate risks, and enhance resilience in the health sector, reintegrating recoverable HCW into the production cycle is essential. However, challenges remain due to the preference for single-use devices and hazardous waste management.