Biomedical Waste Treatment: Technologies, Challenges, and Management Strategies

Abstract Biomedical waste (BMW) management is a critical global concern due to its potential risks to public health and the environment, particularly with the rising waste volumes from healthcare facilities. This paper examines current treatment technologies— including incineration, autoclaving, chemical disinfection, microwave treatment, and plasma pyrolysis—analyzing their efficacy, environmental impact, and operational challenges. Emerging trends like waste minimization, resource recovery, and smart tracking systems are explored as sustainable solutions. However, challenges such as regulatory gaps, inadequate infrastructure, high costs, and lack of awareness hinder effective implementation. To address these issues, the study proposes an integrated management strategy combining advanced technologies, stringent policies, and capacity-building initiatives to ensure safe, sustainable, and efficient biomedical waste disposal while mitigating health and environmental risks. Key Words: Biomedical Waste (BMW), Waste Management, Healthcare Waste, Incineration, Autoclaving, Chemical Disinfection, Microwave Treatment, Plasma Pyrolysis, Hazardous Waste, Infectious Waste, Waste Segregation, Environmental Impact, Public Health, Sustainability, Resource Recovery, Circular Economy, Regulatory Compliance, Waste-to-Energy, Smart Waste Tracking, Pollution Control, Healthcare Sustainability.