Healthcare waste management: from strategy to results

Abstract Issue Proper separate collection, storage, transport and disposal of healthcare waste is essential to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals, patients, environmental workers and the whole community, while also protecting the ecosystem and the environment. The Hospital of Cittadella (Province of Padua, in the North-East of Italy), an acute care hospital with approximately 350 beds, has adopted a rigorous waste management strategy since 2022. Description of the problem Several audits related to healthcare waste management were conducted in the different wards. It emerged that: -in some cases, waste that could be separated for recycling (paper, glass, plastic, aluminum, etc.) was being disposed of in containers designated for infectious waste; -the production of infectious waste per inpatient day was elevate, with a consequent environmental impact. Results In order to reduce the production of infectious healthcare waste and increase the amount of recyclable waste, the following actions were implemented: -a procedure was developed outlining the types of waste and the containers to be used for their collection; -all hospital staff were required to complete mandatory training on this procedure; -a consulting service was activated for ward staff on how to properly separate waste; -the production of infectious waste per inpatient day was monitored. A reduction in infectious waste production (from 2.4 kg/inpatient day in 2019 to 1.7 kg/inpatient day in 2024, -29.2%) and an increase in recyclable waste production (from 102,260 kg in 2019 to 115,500 kg in 2024) were highlighted. These indicators are expected to show continued improvement during the current year. Lessons” Standardized procedures, continuous training and staff support have improved proper waste disposal and traceability. Systematic monitoring has contributed to address critical issues, reducing the volume of healthcare waste produced and increasing hospital safety. Key messages • The adoption of standardized procedures and staff training improves healthcare waste management. • The activation of an environmental consultancy service for the wards further strengthens waste management.