The reduction of waste generation must be encouraged by the following practices:

• Reducing the amount of waste at source
  • − Choosing products that generate less waste: less wrapping material, for example.
  • − Choosing suppliers who take back empty containers for refilling (cleaning products); returning gas cylinders to the supplier for refilling.
  • − Preventing wastage: in the course of care, for example, or of cleaning activities.
  • − Choosing equipment that can be reused such as tableware that can be washed rather than disposable tableware.
    • â–ª It is prohibited to reuse needles or syringes. The plastic part of syringes is recycled in some regions, but this practice is not recommended in ICRC contexts.
• Purchasing policy geared to minimizing risks
  • − Purchase of PVC-free equipment (choosing PET, PE, or PP)—see Health-Care Without Harm site.1110.
  • − Purchase of mercury-free equipment: mercury-free thermometers (ICRC standards), (mercury-free blood-pressure gauges).
  • − If possible, purchase of new safe injection and bloodsampling systems (where the needle is withdrawn automatically).
  • − Opting for the least toxic products (cleaning products, for example).
•  Product recycling
  • – Recycling of batteries, paper, glass, metals, and plastic.
  • – Composting of plant waste (kitchen and garden wastes).
  • – Recycling of the silver used in photographic processing.
  • – Recovering energy for water heating for example.

With kind regards

Sophia

Managing Editor

Journal of Community Medicine & Health Education