By 2030, we will reduce medical instrument waste by 20% compared to 2022 and recycle or clean them to reduce the amount used. We also publish annual interim results of the process.
Product life cycle and life cycle assessment: Carry out life cycle assessments - Conduct studies on the product life cycles of the most commonly used medical instruments to identify the greatest savings potential and optimise procurement, use and disposal accordingly.
Take-back and reprocessing programmes: Set up programmes for the return and reprocessing of used medical instruments. Develop procedures for the efficient cleaning, repair and reuse of instruments to reintegrate them into the production cycle after use.
Partnerships for recycling: Establish partnerships with manufacturers and specialised recycling companies to ensure environmentally friendly disposal and reprocessing of medical instruments.
Material evaluation and selection: Develop clear criteria for evaluating materials in medical devices and instruments to avoid or reduce petroleum-based plastics and heavy metals. This minimises both environmental pollution and health risks for treatments.
Supplier cooperation: Work closely with suppliers to clearly communicate their requirements and objectives and ensure progress in developing environmentally friendly medical products free from harmful substances such as heavy metals and PVC.
Pilot projects: Support the development of non-toxic, environmentally sound medical products by launching pilot projects with innovative materials such as PVC alternatives.
Supplier evaluation through detailed audits: Conduct annual audits using standardised questionnaires and sustainability scorecards, with certified inspectors for site visits or standardised third-party certification.
Progress review and support: Assess supplier progress annually and create incentives for exceeding minimum required standards.
Non-compliance measures: Establish guidelines for managing suppliers who fail to meet standards, including remediation plans and consequences for lack of improvement.
Training and support: Coordinate with other healthcare industry and sustainability stakeholders to educate suppliers about practical sustainability requirements and practices.
Natural resources are finite, and a healthy ecosystem is vital for human wellbeing. Reducing medical instrument waste in Swiss healthcare institutions decreases raw material consumption and lessens the environmental impact of waste and pollutants. This also reduces energy requirements for production and disposal, leading to a sustained reduction in the healthcare system's overall environmental impact.
