Sustainable application of biocides to promote hygiene and minimize antimicrobial resistance

Biocidal (microbicidal) products play a critical role in controlling microorganisms in healthcare, industrial, community, and home environments. There is, however, concern that their use and misuse might contribute to the evolution of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). When evaluating the risk associated with biocides, it is important to adopt an objective approach towards the evidence regarding both the benefits of their appropriate deployment as well as potential contribution to AMR. Biocide use should be restricted to applications where there are tangible benefits but also not unnecessarily restricted where genuine benefits can be demonstrated. From the perspective of sustainability, such benefits include the control and prevention of infections in clinical settings with associated reductions in antibiotic use, preservation of a range of products and materials, substantial reduction in infection risk for consumers, hygiene in the community (e.g. in public swimming baths), and microbial control in many facets of industry. Here, we will provide a critical assessment of the contribution of biocides to sustainability based on a critical evaluation of the literature, followed by offering our views on the future management of biocide use across the globe.