Hospital’s waste reduction project makes national award shortlist
A project that is helping hospitals to reduce waste and improve recycling has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.
The scheme has made the shortlist of the Excellence in Waste Management Awards for successfully bringing in a better recycling process. This has led to less clinical waste in theatres and anaesthetic rooms at Basildon Hospital, helping the site to run more sustainably.
Since the project was introduced more recyclable waste has been collected, while non-recyclable clinical waste has reduced by over 80%.
Thanks to the initiative led by Dr Alfie Ball and supported by the Trust’s Waste Management team, separate recycling bags are now in place to sort different types of waste more effectively.
Alfie said: “I am really thrilled that our hard work has been recognised nationally through this nomination. This proves our commitment to delivering a net-zero and more sustainable national health service.
“With the success at Basildon Hospital, we are now seeking to roll this idea out across the Trust’s other hospitals, including at Broomfield and Southend.”
The initiative also recently won the Henry Hammerbeck Prize which recognises sustainability projects in healthcare across the east of England. It is estimated the project could save up to £100,000 a year in waste disposal costs once introduced across the Trust’s hospitals.
Chris Webb, Sustainability Coordinator at the Trust, said: “This project is a great example of how clinicians and non-clinical specialists can combine to make a positive change. Dr Ball and the Waste Management team identified a simple change that delivered financial savings and environmental benefits without disturbing patient care. It shows that not only is everyone responsible for saving money and net-zero targets, but also that the changes needed don’t need to be complicated to implement.”
Winners will be announced in October at a ceremony in Birmingham.