Reduction in Plastic Use Essential for Global Health

Abstract

S Chhabra and N Chhabda

Context: Environment /climate change are burning issues globally. Single use plastic (SUP) in health care is big contributor. Na- ture of material used affects properties of plastic products. Excessive use, negligence in disposal, have resulted in massive pollution of environment, harming everything on earth, soil pollution, water pollution, air pollution affecting crop, vegeta- bles, fruits, everything, every life, wasting valuable resources, serious problems, need rethinking of all aspects. SUP seems virtually unavoidable in everyday use. Although reducing SUP is crucial, there is little evidence of achieving this in everyday practice. Challenge is also in using opportunities of converting plastic waste for industrial use. Scale of growth of plastic products in healthcare is alarming. Growth of SUP devices is largely driven by concerns of infection from contaminated med- ical equipments, convenience. Proportion of medical plastic disposed by different means vary with resources of health units, regions, countries, knowledge attitude of health teams. Over all plastic waste management depends on socio-economic inputs, community involvement also. Plastic pollution is global concern that must be addressed collectively with utmost urgency by global community. Management of plastic waste is challenging problem for researchers, policymakers, other stakeholders, citizens. Patients may be willing to compromise reusable material for better environment, climate. Substantial evidence exists for reduction of plastic pollution from various ecosystems, empowering, educating communities, and citizens. Health care providers need to act collectively to minimize plastic pollution, use alternative options which must be promoted enforced. U turn is essential with some stars of new knowledge, technology.

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