Circular economy for medical devices: a case study of syringes

Due to the growing demand for medical treatment resulting from an ageing population and advancements in medical devices and technology, the waste produced by the healthcare industry is rapidly increasing. While in many sectors, the shift to a circular economy has become more prevalent, in the healthcare sector, the linear cradle-to-grave model seems to still be a common approach despite growing concerns over the environmental burdens. Many devices are designed for single-use, often due to contamination concerns, limiting their potential for reuse. This paper considers the challenges associated with establishing a circular economy for medical devices, focusing on syringes as a representative single-use product. Through a series of material decontamination experiments, the potential for recycling of syringes has been assessed. These experiments have highlighted possible design improvements that would allow for a more streamlined end-of-life management. The findings from this research highlight the significant potential for both environmental preservation and healthcare efficiency through the circular use of medical devices.