RNSH RECYCLES BLISTER PACKS AND INHALERS At RNSH, our commitment to sustainability took an exciting turn with the launch of a pilot program to recycle empty blister packs and respiratory inhalers. These medical devices are essential in treating asthma and COPD exacerbations in children and adults.
Our Net Zero Lead, Sophie Timmins, and her dedicated Net Zero team began their journey by initiating a pilot study to assess the environmental impact of blister packs and explore sustainable solutions. In June 2024, following the success of this study, RNSH proudly partnered with Pharmacycle on a 12-month pilot program aimed at reducing the environmental impact of these devices. One of the main concerns identified during the study was the use of propellant metered dose inhalers (pMDIs). While essential for respiratory treatment, these inhalers contribute to global warming once discarded, due to the greenhouse gases they release in landfills. To address this issue, our recycling program is designed to separate the aluminum and plastic components of blister packs and reuse them in everyday products like fencing and gardening materials. Additionally, the inhaler cannisters are incinerated in a manner that safely destroys harmful gases, thus preventing them from contributing further to global warming.
Till date, RNSH has collected and recycled over 21,000 blister packs amounting to 9 kg aluminum and 31 kg plastic. We have also collected 250 inhalers of which 192 were pMDIs, thereby saving 2,235.11 kg of CO2e – equivalent to the carbon footprint of driving 9,202.76 km in an average car. The program was received positively across all clinical areas of the hospital. We are especially grateful to our partner – HealthShare, who played a critical role in managing and replacing the 204 litre collection bins. It has been a terrific team effort.
RNSH PROCURES ZERO GWP REFRIGERATORS
As part of an innovative green initiative led by RNSH Operating Theatres, the fridge replacement plan was reviewed in collaboration with our trusted partner, Ventia. Thanks to this review, the procurement team now ensures that all new fridges are purchased with low Global Warming Potential (GWP). This move has helped to significantly reduce emissions on campus and to foster a healthier and more sustainable environment for our staff and patients.
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