Promoting Plastic Neutrality in Dialysis: Pilot Study on Awareness and Tangible Engagement

Background: Study aimed to raise awareness about plastic neutrality in green dialysis, focusing on challenge of plastic waste disposal in dialysis. Methods: Tangible models: one made from conventional concrete and sand, and another identical from "plastoconcrete" (a mixture of cement, sand, and plastic pebbles derived from waste) were gifted, over one year to 300 dialysis professionals forming (Group I). Additionally, 300 individuals from the general public, were engaged (Group II). Participants were asked to identify the plastoconcrete model based on its physical properties (e.g., weight) and complete a questionnaire assessing their awareness of plastic waste disposal, their views on plastic neutrality in dialysis, and the concept of a plastic credit system related to green dialysis including their willingness to participate, learn, and promote these concepts. Results: Our findings revealed a significant lack of awareness regarding plastic waste disposal among dialysis providers once it leaves the dialysis unit. Less than 10% of participants demonstrated prior knowledge. However, 99% of individuals could easily differentiate the plastoconcrete model from the conventional concrete model by hand-weight difference and readily accepted the plastoconcrete model as a gift. The general public was aware of plastic recycling but not aware of "dead-end" plastic disposal and expressed eagerness for business models aimed at achieving sustainability. Only 20% of Group II participants were aware that dialysis generates a large amount of plastic waste; almost all were unaware of plastic neutrality or a plastic credit system and its potential usefulness in green dialysis if introduced. Conclusion: Study underscores need to promote plastic neutrality within green dialysis initiatives. Tangible, engaging methods, appear to be effective in raising awareness among healthcare professionals about the issue of plastic waste and its potential for repurposing and help in sustainability.Paired Tangibles given as gift one made from plastic-concrete and other regular concrete