1
|
Srivastava A, Sharma A, Jena MK, Vuppaladadiyam AK, Reguyal F, Joshi J, Sharma A, Shah K, Gupta A, Chin BLF, Saptoro A, Sarmah AK. Can pyrolysis handle biomedical wastes?: Assessing the potential of various biomedical waste treatment technologies in tackling pandemics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174167. [PMID: 38917898 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Globally, COVID-19 has not only caused tremendous negative health, social and economic impacts, but it has also led to environmental issues such as a massive increase in biomedical waste. The biomedical waste (BMW) was generated from centralized (hospitals, clinics, and research facilities) and extended (quarantine camps, COVID-19 test camps, and quarantined homes) healthcare facilities. Many effects, such as the possibility of infection spread, unlawful dumping/disposal, and an increase in toxic emissions by common BMW treatment facilities, are conjectured because of the rise in waste generation. However, it is also an opportunity to critically analyze the current BMW treatment scenario and implement changes to make the system more economical and environmentally sustainable. In this review, the waste disposal guidelines of the BMW management infrastructure are critically analyzed for many functional parameters to bring out possible applications and limitations of individual interventions. In addition, an investigation was made to select appropriate technology based on the environmental setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Srivastava
- Waste to Resources Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology & Chemical Engineering, Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur 303007, India
| | - Anita Sharma
- Waste to Resources Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology & Chemical Engineering, Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur 303007, India
| | - Manoj Kumar Jena
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | | | - Febelyn Reguyal
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jyeshtharaj Joshi
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai- 400094, India; Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai-19, India
| | - Abhishek Sharma
- Waste to Resources Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology & Chemical Engineering, Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur 303007, India; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.
| | - Kalpit Shah
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Akhilendra Gupta
- Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302017, India
| | - Bridgid Lai Fui Chin
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Curtin University Malaysia, 250 CDT, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Agus Saptoro
- Energy and Environment Research Cluster, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, 250 CDT, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Ajit K Sarmah
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahmed Khan H, Naqvi SS, Alharbi AAK, Alotaibi S, Alkhathami M. Enhancing trash classification in smart cities using federated deep learning. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11816. [PMID: 38783026 PMCID: PMC11116458 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Efficient Waste management plays a crucial role to ensure clean and green environment in the smart cities. This study investigates the critical role of efficient trash classification in achieving sustainable solid waste management within smart city environments. We conduct a comparative analysis of various trash classification methods utilizing deep learning models built on convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Leveraging the PyTorch open-source framework and the TrashBox dataset, we perform experiments involving ten unique deep neural network models. Our approach aims to maximize training accuracy. Through extensive experimentation, we observe the consistent superiority of the ResNext-101 model compared to others, achieving exceptional training, validation, and test accuracies. These findings illuminate the potential of CNN-based techniques in significantly advancing trash classification for optimized solid waste management within smart city initiatives. Lastly, this study presents a distributed framework based on federated learning that can be used to optimize the performance of a combination of CNN models for trash detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haroon Ahmed Khan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Syed Saud Naqvi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | - Abeer A K Alharbi
- Information Systems Department, College of Computer and Information Sciences, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salihah Alotaibi
- Information Systems Department, College of Computer and Information Sciences, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alkhathami
- Information Systems Department, College of Computer and Information Sciences, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Akinocho EM, Ashraf M, Badirou N, Philippe HJ. Knowledge of surgeons and practical stances of healthcare institutions in the Ile-de-France region toward sustainable development: A cross-sectional study. J Visc Surg 2024; 161:15-20. [PMID: 36653287 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Climate change represents one of the gravest threats to health. Surgical activities mobilize a large number of resources which contribute to increased emission of CO2 and anesthetic gases in the environment. The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge of surgeons and the practical stances of healthcare establishments toward sustainable development. METHODS This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, lasting 2 months. From 1 May 2021 to 30 June 2021, surgeons were asked via an online questionnaire to participate. RESULTS A total of 131 out of the 457 contacted surgeons responded. A majority practiced in the private sector, 48.9% knew little about the rules of sustainable development in operating theaters, and 43.5% had an average level. The sustainable development charter was available in only 23% of establishments, while 19% had a sustainable development committee, and specific sustainable development actions were carried out in 27%. CONCLUSION The level of knowledge of surgeons in Île-de-France on sustainable development was low. In general, surgical units were not complying with the rules of good practice on CO2 reduction. It is necessary to find strategies to reduce the impact of operating theaters on the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E-M Akinocho
- Sud Francilien Hospital Center, Corbeil-Essonnes Cedex, France; Regional Observatory for Day Surgery, Île-de-France Regional Health Agency, Paris, France.
| | - M Ashraf
- Sud Francilien Hospital Center, Corbeil-Essonnes Cedex, France; Regional Observatory for Day Surgery, Île-de-France Regional Health Agency, Paris, France
| | - N Badirou
- Sud Francilien Hospital Center, Corbeil-Essonnes Cedex, France; Regional Observatory for Day Surgery, Île-de-France Regional Health Agency, Paris, France
| | - H-J Philippe
- Regional Observatory for Day Surgery, Île-de-France Regional Health Agency, Paris, France; AP-HP Paris-centre, Paris cité University, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gonzalez-Pizarro P, Brazzi L, Koch S, Trinks A, Muret J, Sperna Weiland N, Jovanovic G, Cortegiani A, Fernandes TD, Kranke P, Malisiova A, McConnell P, Misquita L, Romero CS, Bilotta F, De Robertis E, Buhre W. European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care consensus document on sustainability: 4 scopes to achieve a more sustainable practice. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2024; 41:260-277. [PMID: 38235604 DOI: 10.1097/eja.0000000000001942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Climate change is a defining issue for our generation. The carbon footprint of clinical practice accounts for 4.7% of European greenhouse gas emissions, with the European Union ranking as the third largest contributor to the global healthcare industry's carbon footprint, after the United States and China. Recognising the importance of urgent action, the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) adopted the Glasgow Declaration on Environmental Sustainability in June 2023. Building on this initiative, the ESAIC Sustainability Committee now presents a consensus document in perioperative sustainability. Acknowledging wider dimensions of sustainability, beyond the environmental one, the document recognizes healthcare professionals as cornerstones for sustainable care, and puts forward recommendations in four main areas: direct emissions, energy, supply chain and waste management, and psychological and self-care of healthcare professionals. Given the urgent need to cut global carbon emissions, and the scarcity of evidence-based literature on perioperative sustainability, our methodology is based on expert opinion recommendations. A total of 90 recommendations were drafted by 13 sustainability experts in anaesthesia in March 2023, then validated by 36 experts from 24 different countries in a two-step Delphi validation process in May and June 2023. To accommodate different possibilities for action in high- versus middle-income countries, an 80% agreement threshold was set to ease implementation of the recommendations Europe-wide. All recommendations surpassed the 80% agreement threshold in the first Delphi round, and 88 recommendations achieved an agreement >90% in the second round. Recommendations include the use of very low fresh gas flow, choice of anaesthetic drug, energy and water preserving measures, "5R" policies including choice of plastics and their disposal, and recommendations to keep a healthy work environment or on the importance of fatigue in clinical practice. Executive summaries of recommendations in areas 1, 2 and 3 are available as cognitive aids that can be made available for quick reference in the operating room.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Gonzalez-Pizarro
- From the Department of Paediatric Anaesthesia and Critical Care. La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain (PGP), the Department of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, 'Citta' della Salute e della Scienza' University Hospital, Department of Surgical Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy (LB), the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) Odense, Department of Anesthesia, Hospital of Nykobing Falster, Denmark (SK), the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, and Campus Virchow Klinikum (SK), the Department of Anaesthesiology. LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany (AT), the Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. Institute Curie & PSL Research University, Paris, France (JM), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (NSW), the Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperatve Medicine. Medical Faculty, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia (GJ), the Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Science, University of Palermo, Italy. Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital Policlinico Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy (AC), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal (TDF), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany (PK), the Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain. P&A Kyriakou Children's Hospital Athens Greece (AM), Royal Alexandra Hospital. Paisley, Scotland, United Kingdom (PM), Department of Neuro-anaesthesia and Neurocritical Care, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, England, United Kingdom (LM), the Department of Anesthesia, Critical care and Pain Unit, Hospital General Universitario de Valencia. Research Methods Department, European University of Valencia, Spain (CR), the "Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Rome, Italy (FB), the Division of Anaesthesia, Analgesia, and Intensive Care - Department of Medicine and Surgery - University of Perugia Ospedale S. Maria della Misericordia, Perugia, Italy (EDR), the Division of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, Department of Anaesthesiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands (WB)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Getahun H, Belew S, Hasen G, Tefera Mekasha Y, Suleman S. Assessment of the extent and monetary loss in the selected public hospitals in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia: expired medicine perspectives. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1283070. [PMID: 38435389 PMCID: PMC10906092 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1283070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Medicine plays a crucial role in the field of healthcare as a therapeutically significant pharmaceutical product. By effectively preventing diseases, medicine has the power to save countless lives and improve the quality of life for people worldwide. However, despite hospitals' efforts to provide medical care to patients, a significant issue arises from the substantial amount of drugs that go unused due to expiration dates. This problem is particularly prevalent in resource-limited countries like Ethiopia, where the pharmaceutical supply system fails to adequately address the issue of expired drugs in public hospitals, leading to an unsatisfactory situation. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess the economic impact and volume of expired medicines in the selected public hospitals in Jimma Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted to assess the economic impact and volume of expired medicines available in the public hospitals in Jimma Zone. All available hospitals that fulfilled the EFDA guidelines were included. The medication expiration rate was calculated by dividing the total monetary value of expired medicines in a year by the total value of medicines received in the same year multiplied by 100. Then, the collected data was cleared, filtered, coded, and quantitatively analyzed using the Microsoft Excel 2010 version. Results The average medicine waste rate was 4.87% in the fiscal year of 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 in Jimma Zone public hospitals worth 32,453.3 US$. Additionally, the facility wasted an estimated of 2711.44 US$ on the disposal of expired medicines. The expiration of medicines has been linked to several issues, including near-expiry, irrational prescribing practices, and weak participation of clinicians in medicine selection and quantification of the facility. Additionally, only two hospitals had relatively good storage and handling practices. Conclusion Overall, the expiration rate of medicines in the public hospitals in Jimma Zone was greater than the allowed level of 2%. In order to optimize the allocation of healthcare funds and ensure the appropriate use of pharmacologically significant medications it is vital to conduct a comprehensive examination at the national level within a regional hospitals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Habtamu Getahun
- Tullu Bolo General Hospital, Oromia Regional Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Sileshi Belew
- Jimma University Laboratory of Drug Quality (JuLaDQ) and School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Gemmechu Hasen
- Jimma University Laboratory of Drug Quality (JuLaDQ) and School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Yesuneh Tefera Mekasha
- Veterinary Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs, University of Gondar, Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Sultan Suleman
- Jimma University Laboratory of Drug Quality (JuLaDQ) and School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kularatne RKA. Biomedical waste generation at Ayurveda hospitals in South Asia: A mini review of the composition, quantities and characteristics. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024; 42:95-110. [PMID: 37313954 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231178225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ayurveda hospitals generate biomedical wastes (BMW). However, details on composition, quantities and characteristics are very scarce, details which are important to formulate a proper waste management plan for subsequent implementation and continual improvement. Therefore, this article presents a mini review of the composition, quantities and characteristics of BMW generated from Ayurveda hospitals. Additionally, this article presents some best possible treatment and disposal procedures. Most of the information was gleaned from peer-reviewed journals, although some information was collected by the author and from grey literature available to the author; 70-99% (by wet weight) of the solid waste is non-hazardous; biodegradables contributing to 44-60% by wet weight due to more used Kizhi (medicinal bags for fomentation) and other medicinal/pharmaceutical wastes (excluding waste medicated oils, which is 12-15% of the liquid medicinal waste stream and are not readily biodegradable) largely derived from plants. The hazardous waste component includes infectious wastes, sharps, blood as pathological wastes (from Raktamoksha - bloodletting), heavy metal containing pharmaceutical wastes, chemical wastes and heavy metal rich wastes. Quantities of infectious wastes followed by sharps and blood form a major portion of hazardous wastes. Most of the infectious waste material contaminated with blood or other body fluids and sharps from Raktamoksha are very similar (appearance, moisture content and bulk density) to what is generated from hospitals practicing Western medicine. However, hospital-specific waste studies are required in future to better understand the sources, areas of generation, types, quantities and characteristics of BMW, and hence to formulate more accurate waste management plans.
Collapse
|
7
|
Raj A, Samuel C. Assessing and overcoming the barriers for healthcare waste management in India: an integrated AHP and Fuzzy TOPSIS approach. J Health Organ Manag 2023; ahead-of-print:483-501. [PMID: 37819432 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-09-2022-0264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the world faces different issues, and proper healthcare waste (HCW) treatment is one of them. If appropriate disposal of HCW is not performed, it will have hazardous effects on humanity. This paper has identified the significant barriers hindering the proper treatment of healthcare waste management (HCWM) with the strategies to overcome these barriers. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH This paper has identified the significant barriers hindering the proper treatment of HCWM with the strategies to overcome these barriers, and different barriers are identified and categorized into organizational, waste handling, human resource and technical barriers. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) process is used to rank the barriers and sub-barriers. Then, the Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method evaluates the strategies for proper implementation of HCWM. FINDINGS The results show that organizational barriers are the most significant barrier, with a lack of coordination of hospitals with other authorities and no priority given to waste management issues as highly ranked barriers. The results of the Fuzzy TOPSIS method indicate that "Increase govt support and policies" and "Enhance training and awareness of employees" are the most feasible strategies to overcome these barriers for the successful implementation of HCWM. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS This study will be helpful in policy formulations for the proper treatment of HCW in an efficient manner. This paper helps to complete the research gap by providing the different characteristics of barriers. ORIGINALITY/VALUE This paper fills the research gap by expanding the limited knowledge in this field and providing further evidence on this phenomenon. The study also enables the distinctive characteristics of barriers to be understood within a particular context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Raj
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT BHU, Varanasi, India
| | - Cherian Samuel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT BHU, Varanasi, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maalouf A, Agamuthu P. Waste management evolution in the last five decades in developing countries - A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:1420-1434. [PMID: 37125680 PMCID: PMC10416556 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231160099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
This review provides the history and current paradigms of waste management (WM) practices in developing nations during the last five decades. It explores the evolution of the challenges, complexities, and trends during this period. This paper, for the first time, presents an estimation of the amount of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in developing nations in the last five decades based on the material flow analysis approach. Overall, the amount of MSW in developing countries has increased from about 0.64 billion Mt in 1970 to 2 billion Mt in 2019. This review demonstrates the importance of finding new WM approaches in developing nations in the context of formulating policies, strategies, and highlights the major trends that re-define WM in developing countries. It also aims to present the holistic changes in technology, economic and environmental feasibility aspects to attain an integrated sustainable WM system in developing countries. Specific focus on open-burning, open-dumping, informal recycling, food waste, plastic pollution, and waste collection with reference to Sustainable Development Goals are explained. Drivers for the way forward including circular economy are investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amani Maalouf
- Oxford Sustainable Finance Group, Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Research Department, D-Waste, Athens, Greece
| | - Pariatamby Agamuthu
- Jeffrey Sachs Center on Sustainable Development, Sunway University, Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abdallaoui Maan L, Lachguer FZ, Bouziane A. Infectious healthcare waste management among private dental practitioners in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, Morocco: A cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitudes, and practices. J Med Life 2023; 16:1084-1092. [PMID: 37900083 PMCID: PMC10600657 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2023-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The increase in dental healthcare facilities and the use of single-use equipment have increased the production of healthcare waste. Their mismanagement exposes healthcare workers, waste managers, and the population to an infectious risk and negatively impacts the environment. Therefore, a correct management procedure has to be adopted from separation through storage to disposal. This study aimed to investigate dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding managing infectious healthcare waste in private dental offices. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted between December 2020 and March 2021 among private dentists registered at the Moroccan National Council of Dentists in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. A questionnaire was developed to assess waste management in dental offices. Of the 500 questionnaires distributed, 190 completed and exploitable questionnaires were collected. Only 27.3% of healthcare waste managers in dental practices received training, 21,5% of practitioners assimilated the used gloves into household waste, 71.5% disposed of the waste generated by their offices directly into public bins, and 86.4% were unaware of Moroccan law 28-00 on waste management and disposal. This study highlights dentists' apparent lack of knowledge regarding healthcare waste management, and significant gaps were identified between actual practices and recommended regulations. To address these issues, developing a comprehensive medical waste management plan is crucial to encourage the practical cooperation of all stakeholders in this sector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lamiaa Abdallaoui Maan
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | | | - Amal Bouziane
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Clinical Research, and Epidemiology, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Azami-Aghdash S, Sayadzadeh M, Ashtari A, Derakhshani N, Sedaei Z, Rezapour R. Improving the hospital waste management at the Farabi hospital in Malekan -Iran: An action research study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17695. [PMID: 37483697 PMCID: PMC10359768 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hospital waste poses numerous concerns for both human health and the environment. Using an action research technique, this study attempts to improve waste management at the Farabi Hospital in Malekan city-Iran. In 2020, integrated (quantitative-qualitative) action research was done. For action research, the Simmons model was employed. First, a list of significant issues was found during the waste management process evaluation using a standard checklist and brainstorming with hospital officials and workers. The identified issues were prioritized using a prioritization matrix. Then, after consulting with hospital officials, 11 interventions were designed and implemented over six months. Finally, waste management performance was re-evaluated. Average knowledge of the participants about hospital waste management (HWM) standards was improved significantly (64 ± 13.8 before the training, 84.6 ± 20.6). General waste production was reduced by 27.7% in terms of garbage bags and 23.4% in terms of waste weight (95.5 kg-73.1 kg), respectively. Infectious waste output was reduced by 22.8% in the number of garbage bags and 32.1% in the weight of waste (57.5 kg-39 kg). The rate of compliance with HWM criteria was improved from 10 to 33 items. Although the interventions in this study improved the HWM to an acceptable level, more interventions and ongoing monitoring are required. The study's findings also show that an action research strategy might address a wide range of issues and weaknesses in hospitals and related facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saber Azami-Aghdash
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Sayadzadeh
- Health and Environment Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ashtari
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Naser Derakhshani
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Health Management Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Sedaei
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ramin Rezapour
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Soares AL, Buttigieg SC, Bak B, McFadden S, Hughes C, McClure P, Couto JG, Bravo I. A Review of the Applicability of Current Green Practices in Healthcare Facilities. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:6947. [PMID: 37579377 PMCID: PMC10461902 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.6947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular economy (CE) has raised great interest as a concept and as a development model worldwide. This concept aims to provide a substitute for the linear economic model, which was based on production and consumption, continuous growth, and resources depletion. CE allows a greener economy with sustainable development and promotes more balanced societies. The healthcare sector is a major contributor to the climate crisis, with a carbon footprint representing 4.4% of global net emissions. It is thus essential to rethink the applicability of CE in healthcare. METHODS We conducted a scoping review guided by the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and utilised PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist. A systematic search from MEDLINE complete, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases published between 1992 and 2022. RESULTS Through database searching a total of 1018 records were identified and 475 duplicates were removed. From the total search, 543 articles were screened by title/abstract according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After screening, 38 full-text articles were selected and assessed for eligibility. Forty-seven additional records were also identified through other sources and screened for eligibility. Other sources included: 12 articles from snowballing of previous papers; 9 articles following peer-reviewers suggestions; 19 reports from relevant organisations in CE and healthcare; two webpage, and one book. CONCLUSION Specific areas were identified where hospitals could reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and consequently their negative environmental impact, namely through waste management, energy, water, transportation/travel, hospital design, food optimisation, green procurement, and behaviour. Also, lack of staff awareness and knowledge of the environmental impact of healthcare, and hospitals sustainability were identified as major contributors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luísa Soares
- Medical Physics Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra C. Buttigieg
- Department of Health Systems Management and Leadership, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Bartosz Bak
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, University of Medical Science, Poznan, Poland
| | - Sonya McFadden
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Ciara Hughes
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Patricia McClure
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK
| | - Jose Guilherme Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Isabel Bravo
- Medical Physics and Radiobiology Group, Research Center (IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dihan MR, Abu Nayeem SM, Roy H, Islam MS, Islam A, Alsukaibi AKD, Awual MR. Healthcare waste in Bangladesh: Current status, the impact of Covid-19 and sustainable management with life cycle and circular economy framework. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 871:162083. [PMID: 36764546 PMCID: PMC9908568 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has accelerated the generation of healthcare (medical) waste throughout the world. Developing countries are the most affected by this hazardous and toxic medical waste due to poor management systems. In recent years, Bangladesh has experienced increasing medical waste generation with estimated growth of 3 % per year. The existing healthcare waste management in Bangladesh is far behind the sustainable waste management concept. To achieve an effective waste management structure, Bangladesh has to implement life cycle assessment (LCA) and circular economy (CE) concepts in this area. However, inadequate data and insufficient research in this field are the primary barriers to the establishment of an efficient medical waste management systen in Bangladesh. This study is introduced as a guidebook containing a comprehensive overview of the medical waste generation scenario, management techniques, Covid-19 impact from treatment to testing and vaccination, and the circular economy concept for sustainable waste management in Bangladesh. The estimated generation of medical waste in Bangladesh without considering the surge due to Covid-19 and other unusual medical emergencies would be approximately 50,000 tons (1.25 kg/bed/day) in 2025, out of which 12,435 tons were predicted to be hazardous waste. However, our calculation estimated that a total of 82,553, 168.4, and 2300 tons of medical waste was generated only from handling of Covid patients, test kits, and vaccination from March 2021 to May 2022. Applicability of existing guidelines, and legislation to handle the current situation and feasibility of LCA on medical waste management system to minimize environmental impact were scrutinized. Incineration with energy recovery and microwave sterilization were found to be the best treatment techniques with minimal environmental impact. A circular economy model with the concept of waste minimizaton, and value recovery was proposed for sustainable medical waste management. This study suggests proper training on healthcare waste management, proposing strict regulations, structured research allocation, and implementation of public-private partnerships to reduce, and control medical waste generation for creating a sustainable medical waste management system in Bangladesh.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Musfekur Rahman Dihan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - S M Abu Nayeem
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Hridoy Roy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shahinoor Islam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; Department of Textile Engineering, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1341, Bangladesh.
| | - Aminul Islam
- Department of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore-7408, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Rabiul Awual
- Western Australian School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, GPO Box U 1987, Perth, WA 6845, Australia; Materials Science and Research Center, Japan AtomicEnergy Agency (JAEA), Hyogo 679-5148, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hernández Martínez SA, Melchor-Martínez EM, González-González RB, Sosa-Hernández JE, Araújo RG, Rodríguez-Hernández JA, Barceló D, Parra-Saldívar R, Iqbal HMN. Environmental concerns and bioaccumulation of psychiatric drugs in water bodies - Conventional versus biocatalytic systems of mitigation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 229:115892. [PMID: 37084948 PMCID: PMC10114359 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought increments in market sales and prescription of medicines commonly used to treat mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and related problems. The increasing use of these drugs, named psychiatric drugs, has led to their persistence in aquatic systems (bioaccumulation), since they are recalcitrant to conventional physical and chemical treatments typically used in wastewater treatment plants. An emerging environmental concern caused by the bioaccumulation of psychiatric drugs has been attributed to the potential ecological and toxicological risk that these medicines might have over human health, animals, and plants. Thus, by the application of biocatalysis-assisted techniques, it is possible to efficiently remove psychiatric drugs from water. Biocatalysis, is a widely employed and highly efficient process implemented in the biotransformation of a wide range of contaminants, since it has important differences in terms of catalytic behavior, compared to common treatment techniques, including photodegradation, Fenton, and thermal treatments, among others. Moreover, it is noticed the importance to monitor transformation products of degradation and biodegradation, since according to the applied removal technique, different toxic transformation products have been reported to appear after the application of physical and chemical procedures. In addition, this work deals with the discussion of differences existing between high- and low-income countries, according to their environmental regulations regarding waste management policies, especially waste of the drug industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elda M Melchor-Martínez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Reyna Berenice González-González
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Juan Eduardo Sosa-Hernández
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Rafael G Araújo
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | | | - Damià Barceló
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDEA-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), Parc Cientific i Tecnològic de la Universitat de Girona, Edifici H(2)O, Girona, Spain
| | - Roberto Parra-Saldívar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Soares AL, Buttigieg SC, Couto JG, Bak B, McFadden S, Hughes C, McClure P, Rodrigues J, Bravo I. An evaluation of knowledge of circular economy among Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs): Results of a European survey to inform curriculum design. Radiography (Lond) 2023; 29:274-283. [PMID: 36621178 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Global warming and the increase in greenhouse gases are a current concern worldwide. The healthcare sector constitutes about 4.4% of all emissions. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, awareness and attitudes of Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (TR/RTTs) regarding environment-related concepts to inform the development of educational curriculum. METHODS A validated self-designed survey was distributed to TR/RTTs across Europe by the SAFE EUROPE partners and via social media between October 2021 and February 2022. The survey was divided into six sections: (i) demographics, (ii) knowledge of Circular Economy (CE) and Green Skills (GS), (iii) personal attitudes, (iv) TR/RTTs attitudes, (v) the importance of CE, and (vi) education. Questions consisted of mostly Likert scales complemented with other closed- and open-ended questions. RESULTS 31%-42% of participants are aware of national and departmental policies in CE and GS concepts. Even though half of the participants considered that they advocate and practice CE, the open questions indicated that participants only focus on waste management, ignoring all the other dimensions of CE in healthcare. Personal attitudes and lifestyles also did not reflect CE. TR/RTTs considered CE practices and GS development essential. However, the suggested academic level at which these skills should be developed was split between High School (44%) and Bachelor's degree (32%). CONCLUSION It is essential to raise awareness among TR/RTTs about the various dimensions of CE applied to healthcare: "green transportation", "environment-friendly procurement", "hospital building design", "food process optimisation", "water reduction", "energy efficiency", and "waste management". IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE These GS must be developed by TR/RTTs to decrease their impact on the environment. Their training may need to be lifelong, starting during basic high school education and continuing as healthcare professionals after graduation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L Soares
- Medical Physics Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - S C Buttigieg
- Department of Health Services Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
| | - J G Couto
- Radiography Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
| | - B Bak
- Radiotherapy Department II, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznan, Poland; Department of Electroradiology, University of Medical Science, Poznan, Poland.
| | - S McFadden
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK.
| | - C Hughes
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK.
| | - P McClure
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, UK.
| | - J Rodrigues
- Cancer Epidemiology Group, IPO Porto Research Center (CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), Portugal/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC) & RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Porto, Portugal.
| | - I Bravo
- Medical Physics, Radiobiology and Radiation Protection Group, IPO Porto Research Center CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC) & RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tilahun D, Donacho DO, Zewdie A, Kera AM, Haile G. Healthcare waste management practice and its predictors among health workers in private health facilities in Ilu Aba Bor Zone, Oromia region, South West Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067752. [PMID: 36764724 PMCID: PMC9923285 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A lack of safe healthcare waste management (HCWM) practice poses a risk to healthcare staff, patients and communities. In low-income countries like Ethiopia, studies on the level of safe HCWM practices in private healthcare facilities are limited. This study was designed to assess the level of good HCWM practice and associated factors among health workers in private health facilities. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Ilu Aba Bor zone, South West Ethiopia. A random sample of 282 health workers from 143 private health facilities was included in the study. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare factors, knowledge assessment and an observation checklist adapted from WHO guidelines. The collected data were entered into EpiData V.3.1 and analysed with SPSS V.25.0. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with HCWM practice. Variables with a p value of <0.05 at 95% CI were declared significant. RESULTS More than half (58.7%) of private-sector health workers had good HCWM practice. The presence of the HCWM committee (adjusted OR (AOR)=9.6, 95% CI 4.5 to 20.6), designated healthcare waste storage site (AOR=3.0, 95% CI 1.5 to 6.5), reading the HCWM manual (AOR=4.4, 95% CI 2.2 to 9.0) and having good knowledge of HCWM (AOR=2.6, 95% CI 1.06 to 6.15) were factors associated with good HCWM practice. CONCLUSION About three out of five health workers in private healthcare facilities were practising good HCWM. The presence of an HCWM committee, waste management utilities, reading HCWM guidelines and knowledge of health workers were the identified factors. Health workers should read guidelines to improve their knowledge, and the presence of committees and waste management utilities in private clinics should be followed to ensure compliance with safe HCWM practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Degemegn Tilahun
- Food, Drug and Health Service Quality Assurance, Ilu Aba Bor Zone Health Department, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | | | - Asrat Zewdie
- Department of Public Health, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| | | | - Gutama Haile
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ahmed S, Mubarak S, Du JT, Wibowo S. Forecasting the Status of Municipal Waste in Smart Bins Using Deep Learning. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16798. [PMID: 36554676 PMCID: PMC9779277 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The immense growth of the population generates a polluted environment that must be managed to ensure environmental sustainability, versatility and efficiency in our everyday lives. Particularly, the municipality is unable to cope with the increase in garbage, and many urban areas are becoming increasingly difficult to manage. The advancement of technology allows researchers to transmit data from municipal bins using smart IoT (Internet of Things) devices. These bin data can contribute to a compelling analysis of waste management instead of depending on the historical dataset. Thus, this study proposes forecasting models comprising of 1D CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) long short-term memory (LSTM), gated recurrent units (GRU) and bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) for time series prediction of public bins. The execution of the models is evaluated by Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Coefficient determination (R2) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE). For different numbers of epochs, hidden layers, dense layers, and different units in hidden layers, the RSME values measured for 1D CNN, LSTM, GRU and Bi-LSTM models are 1.12, 1.57, 1.69 and 1.54, respectively. The best MAPE value is 1.855, which is found for the LSTM model. Therefore, our findings indicate that LSTM can be used for bin emptiness or fullness prediction for improved planning and management due to its proven resilience and increased forecast accuracy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabbir Ahmed
- UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Sameera Mubarak
- UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Jia Tina Du
- UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Santoso Wibowo
- School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Neves AC, Maia CC, de Castro E Silva ME, Vimieiro GV, Gomes Mol MP. Analysis of healthcare waste management in hospitals of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:90601-90614. [PMID: 35871194 PMCID: PMC9308478 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22113-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Healthcare waste (HCW) management is a challenge for establishments that generate this type of waste, especially hospitals, as they are one of the largest generators. A determining factor in waste management is the amount of waste generation, which must be used for management planning. This study aims to compile and evaluate information on the management of HCW generated in Belo Horizonte's (located in Brazil) hospitals declared in their respective Healthcare Waste Management Plans (HCWMP) sent for approval by the municipality's Superintendency of Urban Cleaning. Therefore, a comparative analysis of the hospitals' generations in relation to their characteristics (nature, specialty, and size) was carried out, using the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test with post hoc in Nemenyi. For the study hospitals, a generation rate of 7.18 (6.17-8.23) kg·bed-1·day-1 was estimated, a generation rate close to that of developed countries. When comparing the generation according to the specialty of the hospitals, it was identified that the maternity hospitals (9.00 (7.05-10.90)) kg·bed-1·day-1 had a significantly higher generation rate than the low-complexity hospitals (4.75 (3.28-6.18)) kg·bed-1·day-1. It was also possible to demonstrate that the specialty and size of hospitals influence the structure available for waste storage. Finally, it can be observed that there are few treatment alternatives, with incineration and autoclaving being the technologies most commonly used by hospitals. It is expected that the results presented can serve as a reference for waste managers, in a context where there is little shared information on the subject.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Couto Neves
- Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental (DCTA), Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica de Minas Gerais (CEFET-MG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
- Diretoria de Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | - Camila Costa Maia
- Superintendência de Limpeza Urbana (SLU) de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Gisele Vidal Vimieiro
- Departamento de Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental (DCTA), Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica de Minas Gerais (CEFET-MG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcos Paulo Gomes Mol
- Diretoria de Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhu J, Saberian M, Perera STAM, Roychand R, Li J, Wang G. Reusing COVID-19 disposable nitrile gloves to improve the mechanical properties of expansive clay subgrade: An innovative medical waste solution. JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION 2022; 375:134086. [PMID: 36160313 PMCID: PMC9484270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.134086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic not only poses an unprecedented threat to global health but also severely disrupts the natural environment and ecosystems. Mitigating the adverse impacts of plastic-based personal protective equipment (PPE) waste requires the cooperation of professionals from various fields. This paper discusses a novel, cleaner approach to soil stabilisation by repurposing the nitrile gloves into a sustainable road material to improve the mechanical properties of expansive clay soil as pavement subgrade. For the first time, extensive geotechnical testings, including standard compaction, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), unsoaked California bearing ratio (CBR), repeated load triaxial (RLT), and swelling-shrinkage tests, were carried out to investigate the engineering performance of different proportions of the shredded nitrile gloves (SNG) (e.g., 1%, 1.5%, 2%) were blended with expansive clay (EC). In addition, surface roughness, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray micro-CT analyses were conducted, and images were obtained to study the microstructural modification of the EC-SNG mixtures. The experimental results indicated that the blend of expansive clay with SNG helped in increasing the compressive strength, resilient modulus, and CBR and assisted in reducing the swelling and shrinkage of the soil. SEM and surface roughness analyses indicated the interaction between the soil matrix interface and the rough surface of the SNG. The main reasons for increasing the strength and stability of clay soil could be attributed to the high tensile strength of the SNG and the formation of the three-dimensional grid, and friction between the soil particles and SNG. According to the X-ray micro-CT test results, the incorporation of SNG led to an increase in closed porosity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiasheng Zhu
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mohammad Saberian
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Rajeev Roychand
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jie Li
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - George Wang
- College of Engineering and Technology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hoang TKD, Binh QA, Bui XT, Le TH, Dang BT, Nguyen HH, Ngo TTM, Kohler P, Makohliso S, Maryna P, Raab M, Vanobberghen A, Hayter A, Schönenberger K. Assessment of water, sanitation, and hygiene services in district health care facilities in rural area of Mekong Delta, Vietnam. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 194:775. [PMID: 36255561 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10179-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Access to sufficient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services is a crucial requirement for patients during therapy and general well-being in the hospital. However, in low- and middle-income countries, these services are often inadequate, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality of patients. This study aimed at assessing the current situation of WASH services in six District Health Care Facilities (DHCFs) in rural areas of the Mekong Delta provinces, Vietnam. The results showed that these services were available with inappropriate quality, which did not compromise the stakeholders' needs. The revealed WASH infrastructures have raised concerns about the prolonged hospital stays for patients and push nosocomial infections to a high level. The safety of the water supply was doubted as the high E. coli (> 60%) and total coliform incidence (86%) was observed with very low residual chlorine concentration (< 0.1 mg/L) in water quality assessment. Moreover, water supply contained a high concentration of iron (up to 15.55 mg/L) in groundwater in one DHCF. Technical assessment tool analysis proved that the improper management and lack of knowledge by human resources were the primary roots of the observed status WASH services. Improvement of the perceptions of WASH should be done for the hospital staff with collaboration and support from the government to prevent incidents in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi-Khanh-Dieu Hoang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Waste Treatment Technology & Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet street, district 10, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Quach-An Binh
- Dong Nai Technology University, Dong Nai, Bien Hoa City, Vietnam
| | - Xuan-Thanh Bui
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Waste Treatment Technology & Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet street, district 10, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
| | - Thi-Hieu Le
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Waste Treatment Technology & Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet street, district 10, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Bao-Trong Dang
- HUTECH University, 475A, Dien Bien Phu, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Hong-Hai Nguyen
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Thi-Tra-My Ngo
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Waste Treatment Technology & Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet street, district 10, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
- Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh (VNU-HCM), Linh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Petra Kohler
- EssentialTech Centre, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Station 10, EPFL 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Solomzi Makohliso
- EssentialTech Centre, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Station 10, EPFL 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Peter Maryna
- University of Applied Sciences & Arts, Northwestern Switzerland, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Martin Raab
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Vanobberghen
- Health Technology and Telemedicine Unit (HTTU) of the Swiss Centre for International Health (SCIH), Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Klaus Schönenberger
- EssentialTech Centre, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Station 10, EPFL 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cook N, Goodwin D, Porter J, Collins J. Food and food-related waste management strategies in hospital food services: A systematic review. Nutr Diet 2022; 80:116-142. [PMID: 36168297 DOI: 10.1111/1747-0080.12768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM This review explored peer-reviewed and grey literature to describe the types and characteristics of food or food-related waste management strategies used in hospital food service settings; their financial, environmental and staffing outcomes; and the barriers and enablers associated with their implementation. METHODS Six electronic databases, 17 Google Advanced searches, and 19 targeted websites were searched for peer-reviewed and grey literature. Literature reporting the financial, environmental, or staffing outcomes of food or food-related waste management strategies that reused, recovered energy from, or recycled waste instead of sending it to landfill were eligible. Document screening and review were completed in duplicate, and included peer-reviewed literature were assessed for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data were synthesised narratively. RESULTS Four peer-reviewed and 81 grey literature records reported 85 strategies. When grouped from most to least favourable according to the food recovery hierarchy they managed waste by: donating surplus food (n = 21); feeding animals (n = 2); industrial use (n = 11); composting (n = 34) and other (n = 17). These approaches had the capacity to reduce waste hauling fees (n = 14), reduce staff handling of waste (n = 3), and decrease the amount of waste sent to landfill (n = 85). Barriers included contamination of waste streams, while enablers included leadership and time-neutral changes. CONCLUSION This review summarises the waste management strategies used by hospitals worldwide that divert food and food-related waste from landfill, their outcomes, and position in the food recovery hierarchy to enable hospital food services to implement appropriate practice and policy changes to decrease their environmental footprint.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Cook
- Department of Nutrition, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Denise Goodwin
- BehaviourWorks Australia Health Programs, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Judi Porter
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jorja Collins
- Department of Nutrition, Monash University, Notting Hill, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mol MPG, Zolnikov TR, Neves AC, Dos Santos GR, Tolentino JLL, de Vasconcelos Barros RT, Heller L. Healthcare waste generation in hospitals per continent: a systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:42466-42475. [PMID: 35364785 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19995-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There are increasing worldwide concerns about the negative impacts of healthcare waste generated in hospitals, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Hazardous type of waste can contribute to adverse effects both in human populations and the environment because of its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. A comprehensive view on increasing waste in the world has not been conducted to understand the breadth of the issue; thus, this paper sought to provide an analysis of hospitals' healthcare waste generation rate. Comparisons were made with Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis tests for simple and multiple comparisons, to analyze nonparametric data, with post hoc by Nemenyi test. Median values indicated that hospital waste was the highest in North and South America (4.42, 1.64 kg/bed/day, respectively) and was almost nonexistent in Oceania (0.19 kg/bed/day), while the median rates for hazardous waste were the highest in Oceania (0.77 kg/bed/day). Africa was almost the lowest producer of waste in each category (0.19 and 0.39 kg/bed/day for hospital and hazardous waste, respectively). Over time, linear regression indicated that hazardous waste in Asia and Europe has increased, while in Oceania, the total waste also increased. Interestingly, in North America, it was observed a reduction in the generation for both total and hazardous waste. This information highlights the importance of understanding continent-specific characteristics and rates, which can be used to create a more individualized approach to addressing healthcare waste in the world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Paulo Gomes Mol
- Diretoria de Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | | | - Arthur Couto Neves
- Diretoria de Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Giulia Roriz Dos Santos
- Diretoria de Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | - Leo Heller
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Instituto René Rachou, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Medical waste management of village clinics in rural China. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-020-01399-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
|
23
|
Sujon H, Biswas TK, Chowdhury A, Chowdhury ME. Medical Waste Management: An Assessment of District-Level Public Health Facilities in Bangladesh. Cureus 2022; 14:e24830. [PMID: 35693375 PMCID: PMC9173732 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.24830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the huge patient load and different types of services, public health facilities produce a bulk of medical waste (MW) in Bangladesh. Improper disposal of MW increases the risk of infection among healthcare service personnel, patients, and attendants. To ensure quality services, this study aimed to assess the practices of MW management and quantify those to find out the shortcomings in the specific steps of waste management. Methodology As part of a larger interventional study, a facility assessment was conducted from February to April 2016 at a District Hospital (DH) and a Mother and Child Welfare Centre (MCWC) in one district. Non-participatory observation of MW management was done using a checklist that was developed following the Guideline for Medical Waste Management of Bangladesh. Scoring was applied for various activities of MW management performed in the study facilities. Results The overall scores for bin management, segregation, and collection of waste were 64.5%, 58.1%, and 62.0% in DH and 53.1%, 41.5%, and 48.0% in MCWC, respectively. The performance of operation theater in MCWC was the lowest among different corners (16.7% to 36.0%). Reusable waste was segregated poorly (32% in DH and 0% in MCWC), and almost none was shredded (4% in DH and 0% in MCWC). Waste was transported from in-house to out-house temporary storage area in an open bin without any trolley or specific route. The storage area was accessible to unauthorized persons, for example, a waste picker in DH. While DH segregated 84% of its infectious waste at the source, it eventually got mixed up with other waste in the storage area and delivered to the municipality to be dumped. MCWC could segregate only 40% of its infectious waste at the source and disposed of them using the pit method. Both the facilities disposed of sharp MW by open-air burning and liquid waste through sewerage without any treatment. Conclusions The performance of MW management was poor in both study facilities. Advocacy to the healthcare personnel and refresher training along with supportive supervision and monitoring may improve the situation. Moreover, a larger study is needed to find out the reasons behind such poor MW management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hasnat Sujon
- Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dhaka, BGD
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Taposh Kumar Biswas
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Aklima Chowdhury
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Mahbub Elahi Chowdhury
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Anuardo RG, Espuny M, Costa ACF, Oliveira OJ. Toward a Cleaner and more Sustainable World: A Framework to Develop and Improve Waste Management through Organizations, Governments and Academia. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09225. [PMID: 35399391 PMCID: PMC8987620 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Waste production is expected to reach 3.40 billion tons annually in 2050. To decrease its negative impacts on the environment generated by human activities, waste management (WM) aims to increase the products life cycle and reduce the use of energy and space. Thus, this work aims to propose a framework with actions to develop and improve WM in the Triple Helix (TH) sectors: organizations, governments, and academia. The framework was developed based on the benchmarking of the technical-scientific scenario and the opportunities and challenges of WM added to the authors' experiences. This study was conducted using a combined method of the literature review and content analysis of articles present in the Scopus database, patents identified in the Orbit database, and governmental actions. As a result, 32 actions have been proposed through the framework, distributed among the TH sectors. The countries analyzed were China, India, and the United States, which highlighted because of the h-index and number of patents published. The main scientific contribution of this work is to add empirical elements coming directly from public and private institutions to the theory about WM, forming a block of knowledge with characteristics closer to reality. The major applied contribution of this work is the proposition of actions to the TH sectors, enabling the development of solutions and technologies to improve WM.
Collapse
|
25
|
An Initial Approach to the Presence of Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater from Hospitals in Colombia and Their Environmental Risk. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14060950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hospital wastewater (HWW) from three different cities in Colombia was characterized. Wastewater quality indicators and 38 relevant pharmaceuticals were examined. The HWW had pH from 6.82 to 8.06, chemical oxygen demand was between 235.5 and 1203 mg L−1, and conductivity ranged from 276.5 to 717.5 µS cm−1. Additionally, most of the target pharmaceuticals (20 of 38) had 100% occurrence frequency in the samples due to their high and continuous consumption in the hospitals. Indeed, acetaminophen, diclofenac, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, losartan, metoprolol, and omeprazole were present in all samples at concentrations from one up to some hundreds of μg L−1. Once pharmaceuticals are discharged into local sewage systems or rivers, because of the high dilution of HWW, the individual environmental hazards are low (i.e., risk quotients, RQ < 0.1 were determined). The action of conventional treatments on HWW also decreased the individual environmental risks of pharmaceuticals (RQ values < 0.1). However, the mixture of pharmaceuticals in the HWW had potential environmental risks (as RQ > 0.1 were found), remarking the need for efficient processes to eliminate pharmaceuticals from HWW. This work provides an initial view on the characterization of diverse Colombian HWW, which could be useful for the understanding of the current situation of pollution by pharmaceuticals in Latin America.
Collapse
|
26
|
Huda MN, Hailemariam TG, Hossain SZ, Malo JS, Khan S, Hadisuyatmana S, Ferdous A, Akombi-Inyang B, Islam RM, Renzaho AMN. Medical waste management-related factors affecting health and experiences of health risks among medical waste handlers in low and middle-income countries: a systematic review protocol of qualitative studies. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056037. [PMID: 35301210 PMCID: PMC8931793 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medical waste management (MWM)-related factors affecting the health of medical waste handlers (MWHs) and their health risks in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) are an important public health concern. Although studies of MWM-related factors and health risks among MWHs in LMICs are available, literature remains undersynthesised and knowledge fragmented. This systematic review will provide a comprehensive synthesis of evidence regarding the individual, system and policy-level MWM-related factors that affect MWHs' health and their experiences of health risks in LMICs. METHODS AND ANALYSIS All qualitative studies published in peer-reviewed journals between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2021 with full texts available and accessible will be included in the review. Seven specific electronic databases (eg, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, ProQuest and PsycINFO) will be searched. Two authors will review the citations and full texts, extract data and complete the quality appraisal independently. A third reviewer will check discrepancies when a consensus cannot be reached on differences between the two reviewers. Data extraction will be conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute standardised data extraction form for qualitative research. The quality of articles will be assessed using a Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Results from eligible articles will be synthesised into a set of findings using the thematic framework analysis approach and will be reported according to the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research statement. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This review is based on published articles, which does not require ethical approval because there is no collection of primary data. Findings from this review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant public health conferences. This protocol has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020226851.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Nazmul Huda
- School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (SLASS), Independent University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbeltown, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Syeda Zakia Hossain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Sajedul Khan
- School of Social Work, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Afsana Ferdous
- Department of Political Science, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Rakibul M Islam
- School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- South Asian Institute for Social Transformation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Andre M N Renzaho
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Detemple M, Aboubacar S, Aboubacar AE, Moha M, Alkassoum I, Chabrol F. [Innovations in medical waste management in a new referral hospital in Niamey, Niger]. SANTE PUBLIQUE (VANDOEUVRE-LES-NANCY, FRANCE) 2022; Vol. 33:729-739. [PMID: 35485130 DOI: 10.3917/spub.215.0729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Public hospitals in Africa are experiencing major organizational dysfunctions, which are particularly acute in waste management. The opening of a new reference hospital in Niamey offers the opportunity to study the implementation of an innovative waste management system. PURPOSE OF RESEARCH The objective of this study was to document the agents’ representations, practices, and construction of waste management standards in a new tertiary hospital in Niamey. We sought to study the implementation of innovative materials in waste management and the progressive construction of protocols, habits, and levers of adaptation. This research was carried out using a socio-spatial approach and essentially mobilized the tools of qualitative investigation. RESULTS Our study highlighted that a hospital waste management culture is progressively established, thanks to an effort to plan activities, to promote the sector, the activities and the emergence of a profession organized around waste management. However, the distinct waste management sectors are struggling to stabilize due to the differentiated statuses and perceptions of the agents. Finally, the success of hospital waste management depends on waste collection at the city level. CONCLUSIONS The Niamey referral hospital is intended to be an infrastructure of excellence, a showcase for neighboring countries. In this respect, our study shows that it is crucial to invest in planning, the enhancement of the profession and the recognition of all the agents involved in waste management.
Collapse
|
28
|
Xin C, Wang J, Wang Z, Wu CH, Nawaz M, Tsai SB. Reverse logistics research of municipal hazardous waste: a literature review. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2022; 24:1495-1531. [PMID: 34099959 PMCID: PMC8172365 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-021-01526-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The reverse logistics of municipal hazardous waste (RLMHW) have received close attention from researchers and practitioners alike, given the essential impact of safe transportation and effective management of hazardous waste on public health and environmental sustainability. There are a great number of studies in the extant literature on RLMHW, with many and diverse research topics; however, a concise and complete overview of the research works already conducted in this particular area is conspicuous by its absence. This paper strives to fill the gap through the conduct of rigorous systematic literature review of RLMHW in the past three decades, and then establish a framework of studies on RLMHW. The main contributions of this study are as follows: (1) to identify the trend of journals publishing research papers on RLMHW; (2) to extract the main topics in studies on RLMHW; (3) to locate the most popular research areas of RLMHW; (4) to summarize the methods adopted in studies on RLMHW; (5) to identify research deficiencies in certain categories of RLMHW; and (6) to establish the future research directions of RLMHW. The main implications of the study are to offer a better understanding of RLMHW by systematic crystallization of archival data in a systematic chronological order across central issues. This study contributes to scholarly debate in this field by serving as a snapshot paper to document the development of the field and gives input to policymakers in process design and policy making in the domain of RLMHW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Xin
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North 3rd Ring Rd. E., Chaoyang, Beijing, 100029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North 3rd Ring Rd. E., Chaoyang, Beijing, 100029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ziping Wang
- Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management, Morgan State University, 1700 East Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251 USA
| | - Chia-Huei Wu
- Department of Hotel Management and Culinary Creativity, Minghsin University of Science and Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan, 304 China
| | - Muhammad Nawaz
- School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North 3rd Ring Rd. E., Chaoyang, Beijing, 100029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Sang-Bing Tsai
- Regional Green Economy Development Research Center, School of Business, WUYI University, Wuyishan, 354300 People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Islam A, Kalam MA, Sayeed MA, Shano S, Rahman MK, Islam S, Ferdous J, Choudhury SD, Hassan MM. Escalating SARS-CoV-2 circulation in environment and tracking waste management in South Asia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:61951-61968. [PMID: 34558044 PMCID: PMC8459815 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16396-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused an exceptional drift of production, utilization, and disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE) and different microplastic objects for safety against the virus. Hence, we reviewed related literature on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA detected from household, biomedical waste, and sewage to identify possible health risks and status of existing laws, regulations, and policies regarding waste disposal in South Asian (SA) countries. The SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in sewage and wastewater samples of Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Besides, this review reiterates the enormous amounts of PPE and other single-use plastic wastes generated from healthcare facilities and households in the SA region with inappropriate disposal, landfilling, and/or incineration techniques wind-up polluting the environment. Consequently, the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) of SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in sewer treatment plant in India. Moreover, the overuse of non-biodegradable plastics during the pandemic is deteriorating plastic pollution condition and causes a substantial health risk to the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. We recommend making necessary adjustments, adopting measures and strategies, and enforcement of the existing biomedical waste management and sanitation-related policy in SA countries. We propose to adopt the knowledge gaps to improve COVID-19-associated waste management and legislation to prevent further environmental pollution. Besides, the citizens should follow proper disposal procedures of COVID-19 waste to control the environmental pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA.
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3216, Australia.
| | | | - Md Abu Sayeed
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Shahanaj Shano
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Md Kaisar Rahman
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Shariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Jinnat Ferdous
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Shusmita Dutta Choudhury
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, 10001-2320, USA
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, 4225, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bayhakki B, Utomo W, Pristiana Dewi A, Lai CKY. Evaluation of Dialysis Adequacy, Interdialytic Weight Gain and Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients within Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic harmed the world community including hemodialysis patients. It has affected the physical and psychological status of hemodialysis patients.
AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the dialysis adequacy, interdialytic weight gain, and quality of life in patients undergoing hemodialysis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted on 105 regular hemodialysis patients from three hemodialysis centers in Riau Province, Indonesia. The patients were purposively recruited. Data on hemodialysis adequacy and interdialytic weight gain were collected in April–May 2020 using an observation sheet, while the quality of life was measured using SF 36. To analyze the data, Pearson’s correlation test and linear regression were performed.
RESULTS: Within the sample of 53 male patients was 50.5% and 52 female patients was 49.5%. The mean score of dialysis adequacy during April–May was 1.75, while the mean IDWG was 2.2 kg, and the mean quality of life was 91.51. There was a relationship between adequacy and IDWG (p = 0.002), and between IDWG and quality of life (p =0.015). There was no relationship between adequacy and quality of life (p = 0.360).
CONCLUSION: IDWG influenced the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Health-care professionals need to help patients to keep their IDWG in the normal range to survive within COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
|
31
|
Lee D, Chua B. Soft Candy as an Electronic Material Suitable for Salivary Conductivity-Based Medical Diagnostics in Resource-Scarce Clinical Settings. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:43984-43992. [PMID: 34506102 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c11306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Soft candy was discovered to be an excellent electronic material and was used to fabricate electrodes for salivary conductivity-based diagnostics. Using a simple molding process, a soft candy (Tootsie Roll) was made into 20 × 20 × 5 mm electrodes with a stable frequency response (0.1-100 kHz). The soft candy electrode-liquid interface circuit model was also developed for the first time. Using 0.01, 0.05, and 0.1 M phosphate-buffered saline and artificial saliva of varying conductivities, the performance of the soft candy (Tootsie Roll) electrode was evaluated. The electrode has a low temperature coefficient of ∼0.02 V/C, and the evaporation-induced mass change during measurement (<3 min) was negligible. Using a trenched surface, a limit of detection (LOD) of ∼1630 μS/cm was obtained and was lower than the saliva conductivity of a healthy adult at ∼3500 μS/cm. Thus, it is suitable for monitoring the ovulation cycle for natural family planning as well as chronic kidney disease diagnosis. Given the ubiquity of soft candy, the simplicity of the molding process, and the negligible medical waste stream, it is a more appropriate approach to diagnostics design for resource-scarce clinical settings, such as those in developing countries. The broader impact of this work will be the paradigm shift of soft candy from food to a new class of edible, moldable, high-resistivity, and stable electronic materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donghyun Lee
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Beelee Chua
- School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chisholm JM, Zamani R, Negm AM, Said N, Abdel daiem MM, Dibaj M, Akrami M. Sustainable waste management of medical waste in African developing countries: A narrative review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2021; 39:1149-1163. [PMID: 34218734 PMCID: PMC8488638 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x211029175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Africa is the second populous continent, and its population has the fastest growing rate. Some African countries are still plagued by poverty, poor sanitary conditions and limited resources, such as clean drinking water, food supply, electricity, and effective waste management systems. Underfunded healthcare systems, poor training and lack of awareness of policies and legislations on handling medical waste have led to increased improper handling of waste within hospitals, healthcare facilities and transportation and storage of medical waste. Some countries, including Ethiopia, Botswana, Nigeria and Algeria, do not have national guidelines in place to adhere to the correct disposal of such wastage. Incineration is often the favoured disposal method due to the rapid diminishment of up to 90% of waste, as well as production of heat for boilers or for energy production. This type of method - if not applying the right technologies - potentially creates hazardous risks of its own, such as harmful emissions and residuals. In this study, the sustainability aspects of medical waste management in Africa were reviewed to present resilient solutions for health and environment protection for the next generation in Africa. The findings of this research introduce policies, possible advices and solutions associated with sustainability and medical waste management that can support decision-makers in developing strategies for the sustainability by using the eco-friendly technologies for efficient medical waste treatment and disposal methods and also can serve as a link between the healthcare system, decision-makers, and stakeholders in developing health policies and programmes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Reza Zamani
- Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Abdelazim M Negm
- Water and Water Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Noha Said
- Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud M Abdel daiem
- Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
- Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Shaqra University, Al-dawadmi, Ar Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahdieh Dibaj
- Department of Engineering, College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Mohammad Akrami
- Department of Engineering, College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Adelodun B, Ajibade FO, Ibrahim RG, Ighalo JO, Bakare HO, Kumar P, Eid EM, Kumar V, Odey G, Choi KS. Insights into hazardous solid waste generation during COVID-19 pandemic and sustainable management approaches for developing countries. JOURNAL OF MATERIAL CYCLES AND WASTE MANAGEMENT 2021; 23:2077-2086. [PMID: 35194403 PMCID: PMC8343211 DOI: 10.1007/s10163-021-01281-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The recent emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the drastic production and use of healthcare and personal protective equipment, leading to the release of a huge quantity of hazardous medical and solid wastes in the environment. Meanwhile, these solid wastes may contribute to the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 viral particles when disposed of without proper treatment and care. Since SARS-CoV-2 could persist on different material surfaces including plastic, steel, paper, cardboard, cloth, and wood, proper management of these hazardous solid wastes has become a challenging task during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this paper, an overview of the consumption of COVID-19-related healthcare and personal protective equipment along with the production of hazardous solid waste is presented. The efficient management of these wastes is necessary to prevent the entering of SARS-CoV-2 in various environmental compartments. Therefore, some preventive measures including the use of biodegradable materials for manufacturing personal protective equipment, minimizing the use of non-biodegradable materials, efficient pre- and-post planning, careful segregation, and disposal are, therefore, proposed for their sustainable management. The findings reported in this paper contribute to tackling the problems associated with hazardous solid waste management, particularly for low- and middle-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Adelodun
- Department of Agricultural Civil Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, University of Ilorin, PMB 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Fidelis Odedishemi Ajibade
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Technology, PMB 704, Akure, Nigeria
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Biotechnology, Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 People’s Republic of China
| | | | - Joshua O. Ighalo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Ilorin, PMB 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, PMB. 5025, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Hashim Olalekan Bakare
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Ilorin, PMB 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Agro-Ecology and Pollution Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed To Be University), Haridwar, 249404 Uttarakhand India
| | - Ebrahem M. Eid
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61321 Saudi Arabia
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh, 33516 Egypt
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Agro-Ecology and Pollution Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed To Be University), Haridwar, 249404 Uttarakhand India
| | - Golden Odey
- Department of Agricultural Civil Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Kyung-Sook Choi
- Department of Agricultural Civil Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kyungpook, National University, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
da Luz TM, Araújo APDC, Estrela FN, Braz HLB, Jorge RJB, Charlie-Silva I, Malafaia G. Can use of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin as a treatment of COVID-19 affect aquatic wildlife? A study conducted with neotropical tadpole. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 780:146553. [PMID: 33774288 PMCID: PMC7969824 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The impacts on human health and the economic and social disruption caused by the pandemic COVID-19 have been devastating. However, its environmental consequences are poorly understood. Thus, to assess whether COVID-19 therapy based on the use of azithromycin (AZT) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) during the pandemic affects wild aquatic life, we exposed (for 72 h) neotropical tadpoles of the species Physalaemus cuvieri to the water containing these drugs to 12.5 μg/L. We observed that the increase in superoxide dismutase and catalase in tadpoles exposed to AZT (alone or in combination with HCQ) was predominant to keep the production of NO, ROS, TBARS and H2O2 equitable between the experimental groups. In addition, the uptake of AZT and the strong interaction of AZT with acetylcholinesterase (AChE), predicted by the molecular docking analysis, were associated with the anticholinesterase effect observed in the groups exposed to the antibiotic. However, the unexpected increase in butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in these same groups suggests its constitutive role in maintaining cholinergic homeostasis. Therefore, taken together, our data provide a pioneering evidence that the exposure of P. cuvieri tadpoles to AZT (alone or in combination with HCQ) in a predictably increased environmental concentration (12.5 μg/L) elicits a compensatory adaptive response that can have, in the short period of exposure, guaranteed the survival of the animals. However, the high energy cost for maintaining physiological homeostasis, can compromise the growth and development of animals and, therefore, in the medium-long term, have a general negative effect on the health of animals. Thus, it is possible that COVID-19 therapy, based on the use of AZT, affects wild aquatic life, which requires greater attention to the impacts that this drug may represent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fernanda Neves Estrela
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Helyson Lucas Bezerra Braz
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Morfofuncionais, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Ives Charlie-Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Morfofuncionais, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil; Institute de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratório de Pesquisas Biológicas, Instituto Federal Goiano, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Conservação de Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Conservação de Recursos Naturais do Cerrado, Instituto Federal Goiano, Urutaí, GO, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Olaniyan OT, Dare A, Okoli B, Adetunji CO, Ibitoye BO, Okotie GE, Eweoya O. Increase in SARS-CoV-2 infected biomedical waste among low middle-income countries: environmental sustainability and impact with health implications. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 33:27-44. [PMID: 34293833 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2020-0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease, with global deaths rising to about 360,438 as of 28 May 2020. Different countries have used various approaches such as lockdown, social distancing, maintenance of personal hygiene, and increased establishment of testing and isolation centers to manage the pandemic. Poor biomedical waste (BMW) management, treatment, and disposal techniques, especially SARS-CoV-2 infected BMW, may threaten the environmental and public health in most developing countries and, by extension, impact the economic status of individuals and the nation at large. This may increase the potential for the transmission of air/blood body fluid-borne pathogens, increase the growth of microorganisms, risk of mutagenesis, and upsurge of more virulent strain. In contrast, uncontrolled substandard burning could increase the potential spread of nosocomial infection and environmental exposure to toxic organic compounds, heavy metals, radioactive, and genotoxic bio-aerosols which might be present in the gaseous, liquid, and solid by-products. The paucity of understanding of pathophysiology and management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has also necessitated the need to put in place appropriate disposal techniques to cater for the sudden increase in the global demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and pharmaceutical drugs to manage the pandemic and to reduce the risk of preventable infection by the waste. Therefore, there is a need for adequate sensitization, awareness, and environmental monitoring of the impacts of improper handling of SARS-CoV-2 infected BMWs. Hence, this review aimed to address the issues relating to the improper management of increased SARS-CoV-2 infected BMW in low middle-income countries (LMICs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olugbemi T Olaniyan
- Department of Physiology, Laboratory for Reproductive Biology and Developmental Programming, Edo University Iyamho, Iyamho, Nigeria
| | - Ayobami Dare
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Bamidele Okoli
- Institute of Chemical and Biotechnology, Vaal University of Technology, Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park, Sebokeng, South Africa
| | - Charles O Adetunji
- Department of Microbiology, Applied Microbiology, Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Laboratory, Edo University Iyamho, Iyamho, Edo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Gloria E Okotie
- Department of Physiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olugbenga Eweoya
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of the Gambia, Serekunda, The Gambia
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Todedji J, Sopoh G, Degbey C, Yessoufou A, Suanon F, Mama D. Assessment of the quality of effluent management from university hospitals in the Littoral department in Benin. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1429. [PMID: 34281505 PMCID: PMC8290578 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Liquid discharges from hospitals (effluents) threaten the environment and are now a central concern of all stakeholders in the health system and those in the protection of the environment. The management of effluents is a major problem in developing countries. The objective of this study was to assess the quality of effluent management at the level of university hospital centers (CHU) in the Littoral region in Benin. Methods It was a cross-sectional, descriptive, evaluative study that took place in 2020 to assess the “structure”, “process” and “results” components according to standard thresholds (Bad: < 60%; Acceptable: [60–80% [and Good: ≥ 80%). Results In all the CHUs, all the components, as well as the overall quality of the management of hospital effluents, had a score between 0 and 60%, with an assessment deemed bad. The poor quality of the process highlighted the non-compliance with standards relating to the management of hospital liquid discharges. Several factors linked to the “structure”, “process” and “results” components at the same time explain this poor management of university hospitals effluents. Conclusion These effluents discharged without prior treatment into wastewater could constitute a source of dissemination of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. It is therefore important to develop methods for treating these effluents before they are released into the natural environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judicaël Todedji
- Department of Environmental Health, Regional Institute of Public Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Ouidah, Benin
| | - Ghislain Sopoh
- Department of Environmental Health, Regional Institute of Public Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Ouidah, Benin
| | - Cyriaque Degbey
- Department of Environmental Health, Regional Institute of Public Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Ouidah, Benin. .,University Hospital Hygiene Clinic, National University Hospital Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga, Cotonou, Benin.
| | - Arouna Yessoufou
- National Institute of Water, Laboratory of Applied Hydrology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Fidèle Suanon
- National Institute of Water, Laboratory of Applied Hydrology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Daouda Mama
- National Institute of Water, Laboratory of Applied Hydrology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Comparison of Health-care Waste Management in Urban and Rural Areas in Iran: Application of Multi-criteria Decision Making Method. HEALTH SCOPE 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope.113282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Background: The global population has grown and is still growing. This growth is happening in more cities than in rural areas, given the continual search for economic opportunities. The implication of this growth is the growth of healthcare centers to meet the growing healthcare demand. Accordingly, healthcare waste production has posed a big challenge to health waste disposal and management. Objectives: This study aimed to prioritize and select the best method of waste management in the health sector with multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approaches. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was carried out to select the best method of managing healthcare wastes through MCDM approaches in Qazvin. The sample was selected and assigned to two groups of 28 experts (five categories) who evaluated the criteria and a group of 22 individuals (four categories) to rank disposal methods of healthcare waste. First, six waste disposal methods and 12 criteria for designing a questionnaire were identified. After designing the questionnaire, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to calculate the weights of the criteria. Then, the TOPSIS method was used to rank different waste disposal methods. We used EC (ver. 8), Excel (Microsoft, 2007), and Lingo (ver. 14) for analyzing the data. Results: Concerning the rank of health waste disposal methods based on common existing criteria, urban and rural areas should use different disposal methods. The best disposal methods are irradiation (0.839) and microwave (0.794) in urban areas and steam sterilization (0.867) and microwave (0.840) in rural areas. In both areas, incineration was ranked the last. Conclusions: To achieve the effective disposal and safety of health waste in urban and rural areas, varied but applicable disposable methods should be used for the management of health waste disposal.
Collapse
|
38
|
Tsai WT. Analysis of medical waste management and impact analysis of COVID-19 on its generation in Taiwan. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2021; 39:27-33. [PMID: 33666120 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x21996803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Medical waste management in Taiwan is a crucial issue due to its highly environmental and human health risks. The main objectives of this paper were to analyse the status of medical waste generation and treatment in recent years, and also address the discussions on the impacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on its generation in the first half of 2020. It showed that the reported quantities have slightly increased from 35,747 metric tonnes (Mt) in 2016 to 40,407 Mt in 2019, showing an average increase by 4.17%. This rate of increase was consistent with the hospital services. When classified by the reported codes, the C-type waste (infectious waste) accounted for about 89% of the reported quantities, which indicated an annual increase by 4.14% during the same period. In addition, the medical waste treatment in 2019 was mainly dependent on the commissioned treatment (80.18%), followed by the recycling (18.53%) and the self-treatment (1.29%). Furthermore, the impact of COVID-19 on the medical waste generation in Taiwan was not significant in the first half of 2020 compared to the data during the years of 2016-2019. It was indicated that the consistent trend was observed at the daily confirmed COVID-19 cases in Taiwan during this period. Obviously, the reduction in the hospital medical services during the COVID-19 outbreak should be offset by the increase in medical waste generation from the medical services. In order to try to ensure safe and complete destruction of the COVID-19 virus, all the waste generated from the healthcare facilities should be treated in the incineration plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Tien Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Bioresources, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung County
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chew KW, Chia SR, Chia WY, Cheah WY, Munawaroh HSH, Ong WJ. Abatement of hazardous materials and biomass waste via pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis for environmental sustainability and circular economy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 278:116836. [PMID: 33689952 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.116836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable journey of progression of mankind has created various impacts in the form of polluted environment, amassed heavy metals and depleting resources. This alarming situation demands sustainable energy resources and approaches to deal with these environmental hazards and power deficit. Pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis address both energy and environmental issues caused by civilization and industrialization. The processes use hazardous waste materials including waste tires, plastic and medical waste, and biomass waste such as livestock waste and agricultural waste as feedstock to produce gas, char and pyrolysis oil for energy production. Usage of hazardous materials as pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis feedstock reduces disposal of harmful substances into environment, reducing occurrence of soil and water pollution, and substituting the non-renewable feedstock, fossil fuels. As compared to combustion, pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis have less emission of air pollutants and act as alternative options to landfill disposal and incineration for hazardous materials and biomass waste. Hence, stabilizing heavy metals and solving the energy and waste management problems. This review discusses the pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis of biomass and harmful wastes to strive towards circular economy and eco-friendly, cleaner energy with minimum waste disposal, reducing negative impact on the planet and creating future possibilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kit Wayne Chew
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University Malaysia, Jalan Sunsuria, Bandar Sunsuria, 43900, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, Fujian, China.
| | - Shir Reen Chia
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, 43500, Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wen Yi Chia
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, 43500, Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wai Yan Cheah
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, MAHSA University, 42610, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Heli Siti Halimatul Munawaroh
- Chemistry Study Program, Department of Chemistry Education, Faculty of Mathematics and Science Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudhi 229, Bandung, 40154, Indonesia
| | - Wee-Jun Ong
- School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University Malaysia, Jalan Sunsuria, Bandar Sunsuria, 43900, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, Fujian, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Toward Sustainable Environmental Management of Healthcare Waste: A Holistic Perspective. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13095280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The management of healthcare waste requires a sustained and holistic approach involving a range of parties. This is challenging for governments, especially in developing countries, where waste management systems have limited capacities for addressing the issue. Using Saudi Arabia as a case study, this paper followed a multi-method approach, including policy analysis, observation, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group, to explore the country’s healthcare waste management system. The study estimated that Saudi government hospitals across the country, every year, throw away in landfills paper (27,000 tons), plastic (15,000 tons), food (10,000 tons), glass (8000 tons), and metal (7000 tons). Regrettably, all these tons of materials end up in landfills without any form of recycling. A number of challenges were identified, reflecting mainly the lack of a legal framework, waste training, coordination among stakeholders, and social responsibility. This study generated new knowledge about waste management systems by exploring how their performance is shaped by the processes occurring at the policy, organization, and individual levels.
Collapse
|
41
|
Molnár E, Mahmood A, Ahmad N, Ikram A, Murtaza SA. The Interplay between Corporate Social Responsibility at Employee Level, Ethical Leadership, Quality of Work Life and Employee Pro-Environmental Behavior: The Case of Healthcare Organizations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094521. [PMID: 33923201 PMCID: PMC8123181 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The notion of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been around for many decades. However, even in 2021, its spectrum is still evolving. Several studies addressed CSR for realizing different organizational outcomes. However, its significance in achieving employee-related consequences is relatively new to the literature. In the same manner, it is not clear from existing literature how ethical leaders can impact their followers' CSR-related behavior, for example, employee pro-environmental behavior (EPB). With this background, the current study aims to explore the relationship of CSR at the employee level (CSR-E) with EPB through the mediating effect of ethical leadership (ELS) in the healthcare sector of a developing economy. This study also proposes a conditional indirect effect of quality of work-life (QWL) in this relationship. The data for the current study were obtained from different hospitals located in a large city through a self-administered questionnaire. The data were examined through the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. The results validated that CSR-E positively influences EPB, and ELS partially mediates this relationship. Furthermore, the results also confirmed the presence of the conditional indirect effect of QWL in the proposed relationship of the current study. These findings will be helpful for healthcare policymakers to enhance the pro-environmental behavior of employees at the workplace through CSR-E and ELS. These results will also be helpful in reducing the overall environmental footprint of a hospital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edina Molnár
- Institute of Management and Organizational Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (E.M.); (S.A.M.)
| | - Asif Mahmood
- Department of Business Studies, Namal Institute, Mianwali 42250, Pakistan;
| | - Naveed Ahmad
- Faculty of Management Studies, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
| | - Amir Ikram
- Institute of Business & Management, University of Engineering and Technology, GT Road, Lahore 54890, Pakistan;
| | - Shah Ali Murtaza
- Institute of Management and Organizational Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (E.M.); (S.A.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Du Q, Zhang D, Hu W, Li X, Xia Q, Wen T, Jia H. Nosocomial infection of COVID‑19: A new challenge for healthcare professionals (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:31. [PMID: 33537803 PMCID: PMC7891837 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nosocomial infections, also known as hospital-acquired infections, pose a serious challenge to healthcare professionals globally during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic. Nosocomial infection of COVID‑19 directly impacts the quality of life of patients, as well as results in extra expenditure to hospitals. It has been shown that COVID‑19 is more likely to transmit via close, unprotected contact with infected patients. Additionally, current preventative and containment measures tend to overlook asymptomatic individuals and superspreading events. Since the mode of transmission and real origin of COVID‑19 in hospitals has not been fully elucidated yet, minimizing nosocomial infection in hospitals remains a difficult but urgent task for healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals globally should form an alliance against nosocomial COVID‑19 infections. The fight against COVID‑19 may provide valuable lessons for the future prevention and control of nosocomial infections. The present review will discuss some of the key strategies to prevent and control hospital‑based nosocomial COVID‑19 infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Du
- Department of Immunology, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Dingding Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
- Department of Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, P.R. China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan 637100, P.R. China
| | - Weimin Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan 637100, P.R. China
| | - Xuefei Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Qiongrong Xia
- Department of Immunology, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China
| | - Taishen Wen
- Department of Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 611731, P.R. China
| | - Haiping Jia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan 637100, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dang HTT, Dang HV, Tran TQ. Insights of healthcare waste management practices in Vietnam. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:12131-12143. [PMID: 32948943 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10832-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, together with the economic development, public health activities have gained substantial attention with increasing number of hospitals during the past decades. A multi-method approach involving site visits, questionnaires, and interviews, in combination with secondary data revealed that the healthcare waste (HCW) generation, varied with different specialties (general or pediatric/obstetric hospitals) and different level of hospitals (central, provincial, district levels). The HCW generation from different kinds of surveyed hospitals varied from 0.8 to 1.0 kg/bed/day for domestic waste, 0.15 to 0.25 kg/bed/day for infectious and hazardous waste, and less than 0.1 kg/bed/day for recycled waste. Only 94.3% of central hospitals, 92% of provincial hospitals, and 82% of district hospitals complied with national regulation in hazardous medical waste treatment. For healthcare wastewater treatment, the actual operating rates were 91%, 73%, and 50% for central, provincial, and district hospitals, respectively. The cost for HCW management accounted for only 10-15% of the total budget allocated for the medical facilities. Most of the provincial hospitals spent about $0.2-$0.4/bed/year for HCW management. This is the root cause of ineffective HCW management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huyen T T Dang
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering, National University of Civil Engineering, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Hung V Dang
- Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tuong Q Tran
- Department of Information Technology, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Saadati M, Rezapour R. Medical Waste in Traditional Medicine: A Neglected Issue. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 50:428. [PMID: 33748014 PMCID: PMC7956073 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v50i2.5369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Saadati
- Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ramin Rezapour
- Iranian Center of Excellence in Health Management, School of Health Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Gwenzi W. Leaving no stone unturned in light of the COVID-19 faecal-oral hypothesis? A water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) perspective targeting low-income countries. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 753:141751. [PMID: 32911161 PMCID: PMC7438205 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The human coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is now a global pandemic. Social distancing, hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment dominate the current fight against COVID-19. In developing countries, the need for clean water provision, sanitation and hygiene has only received limited attention. The current perspective examines the latest evidence on the occurrence, persistence and faecal-oral transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent causing COVID-19. Evidence shows that SARS-CoV-2 proliferate in the human gastrointestinal system, and is shed via faeces. SARS-CoV-2 can survive and remain viable for up to 6 to 9 days on surfaces. Recent wastewater-based epidemiological studies from several countries also detected SARS-CoV-2 RNA in raw wastewaters. Shell disorder analysis shows that SARS-CoV-2 has a rigid outer shell conferring resilience, and a low shell disorder conferring moderate potential for faecal-oral transmission. Taken together, these findings point to potential faecal-oral transmission of SARS-CoV-2, which may partly explain its rapid transmission. Three potential mechanisms may account for SARS-CoV-2 faecal-oral transmission: (1) untreated contaminated drinking water, (2) raw and poorly cooked marine and aquatic foods from contaminated sources, (3) raw wastewater-based vegetatble production systems (e.g., salads) and aquaculture, and (4) vector-mediated transmission from faecal sources to foods, particularly those from open markets and street vending. SARS-CoV-2 faecal-oral transmission could be particularly high in developing countries due to several risk factors, including; (1) poor drinking water, wastewater and sanitation infrastructure, (2) poor hygiene and food handling practices, (3) unhygienic and rudimentary funeral practices, including home burials close to drinking water sources, and (4) poor social security and health care systems with low capacity to cope with disease outbreaks. Hence, clean drinking water provision, proper sanitation, food safety and hygiene could be critical in the current fight against COVID-19. Future research directions on COVID-19 faecal-oral transmission are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willis Gwenzi
- Biosystems and Environmental Engineering Research Group, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Gwenzi W. Autopsy, thanatopraxy, cemeteries and crematoria as hotspots of toxic organic contaminants in the funeral industry continuum. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 753:141819. [PMID: 33207461 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and health risks of toxic organic contaminants (TOCs) in the funeral industry are relatively under-studied compared to other industries. An increasing body of literature reports TOCs including emerging contaminants in the funeral industry, but comprehensive reviews of the evidence are still lacking. Hence, evidence was analysed to address the proposition that, the funeral industry constitutes several hotspot reservoirs of a wide spectrum of TOCs posing ecological and human health risks. TOCs detected include embalming products, persistent organic pollutants, synthetic pesticides, pharmaceuticals, personal care products and illicit drugs. Human cadavers, solid wastes, wastewaters and air-borne particulates from autopsy, thanatopraxy care facilities (mortuaries, funeral homes), cemeteries and crematoria are hotspots of TOCs. Ingestion of contaminated water, and aquatic and marine foods constitutes non-occupational human exposure, while occupational exposure occurs via inhalation and dermal intake. Risk factors promoting exposure to TOCs include unhygienic burial practices, poor solid waste and wastewater disposal, and weak and poorly enforced regulations. The generic health risks of TOCs are quite diverse, and include; (1) genotoxicity, endocrine disruption, teratogenicity and neurodevelopmental disorders, (2) development of antimicrobial resistance, (3) info-disruption via biomimicry, and (4) disruption of ecosystem functions and trophic interactions. Barring formaldehyde and inferential evidence, the epidemiological studies linking TOCs in the funeral industry to specific health outcomes are scarce. The reasons for the lack of evidence, and limitations of current health risk assessment protocols are discussed. A comprehensive framework for hazard identification, risk assessment and mitigation (HIRAM) in the funeral industry is proposed. The HIRAM includes regulatory, surveillance and control systems such as prevention and removal of TOCs. Future directions on the ecotoxicology of mixtures, behaviour, and health risks of TOCs are highlighted. The opportunities presented by emerging tools, including isotopic labelling, genomics, big data analytics (e.g., machine learning), and in silico techniques in toxicokinetic modelling are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willis Gwenzi
- Biosystems and Environmental Engineering Research Group, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Belew S, Suleman S, Wynendaele E, Duchateau L, De Spiegeleer B. Environmental risk assessment of the anthelmintic albendazole in Eastern Africa, based on a systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 269:116106. [PMID: 33272795 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study performs an environmental risk assessment (ERA) of the anthelmintic medicine albendazole (ABZ) in the eastern African region. A systematic literature search strategy was applied to obtain quantitative information on the physicochemical characteristics, the metabolization-fate, the ecotoxicity and the environmental occurrence in different countries worldwide serving as model regions. In addition, insilico tools were employed to obtain data on physicochemical characteristics and toxic hazards of ABZ and its metabolites. Moreover, ERA models were used to predict environmental concentrations in different compartments and compare them with the measured environmental concentrations. Finally, the environmental risk of ABZ in the eastern Africa was estimated by calculating the risk quotient (RQ), and its uncertainty estimated by Monte Carlo simulation. The predicted environmental concentrations of ABZ in surface water in the model region based on consumption (1.6-267 ng/L) were within the range of values obtained from the measured environmental concentrations of the same region (0.05-101,000 ng/L). Using these models with adapted input variables for eastern Africa, the predicted surface water concentration in that region was 19,600 ± 150 ng/L (95% CI). The calculated soil concentrations of ABZ in the model regions and the eastern Africa were found to be 0.057 ± 0.0 μg/kg and 0.022 ± 0.0 μg/kg, respectively. The environmental risk expressed as risk quotient of ABZ in eastern Africa estimated for the aquatic compartment (146 ± 1) indicated a significant environmental risk calling on appropriate actions from the competent authorities to reduce this risk in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sileshi Belew
- Jimma University Laboratory of Drug Quality (JuLaDQ) and School of Pharmacy, Jimma University, PO Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia; Drug Quality and Registration (DruQuaR) Group, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Sultan Suleman
- Jimma University Laboratory of Drug Quality (JuLaDQ) and School of Pharmacy, Jimma University, PO Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia.
| | - Evelien Wynendaele
- Drug Quality and Registration (DruQuaR) Group, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Luc Duchateau
- Biometrics Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Bart De Spiegeleer
- Drug Quality and Registration (DruQuaR) Group, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Gwenzi W. Dangerous liaisons? As the COVID-19 wave hits Africa with potential for novel transmission dynamics: a perspective. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 30:1353-1366. [PMID: 33425657 PMCID: PMC7778499 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-020-01467-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Willis Gwenzi
- Biosystems and Environmental Engineering Research Group, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Considerations for environmentally sustainable head and neck surgical oncology practice. Am J Otolaryngol 2020; 41:102719. [PMID: 32947153 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2020.102719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the potential role of head and neck oncologic surgeons in environmental protection, sustainability of health-care systems and avoidance of procedures contributing to climate change in the future. REVIEW METHODS This literature review searched for relevant literature about the relevance of waste in surgical head and neck oncology practice and the innovative alternatives to decrease its effect on environment. CONCLUSIONS Head and neck oncologic surgeons have a role in environmental protection, sustainability of health-care systems and avoidance of procedures contributing to climate change in the future. However, there exist only limited data on waste management and other procedures in surgical oncology to promote these practices. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE By increasing awareness of the corresponding issues of waste production within the healthcare environment, head and neck surgeons can have a pioneering role in considering how to reduce, recycle and reuse in a more efficient manner. As research in this field accumulates, healthcare providers can engage both managers and clinicians in this process. It remains imperative to provide these professionals opportunities for their work force to rethink current practices in a manner that prioritizes environmentally sustainable head and neck surgical practices.
Collapse
|
50
|
Patil PM, Bohara RA. Nanoparticles impact in biomedical waste management. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2020; 38:1189-1203. [PMID: 32667845 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x20936761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Effectual management of biomedical waste is obligatory for healthy human beings and for a safe environment. Mismanagement of biomedical waste is a community health problem. Safe and persistent methods for the management of biomedical waste are of vital importance. This article reviews the classification of biomedical waste, sources, colour-coding system of biomedical waste and salient features of biomedical waste rules in 2016, and the future prospective of nanoparticles. The untreated disposal of biomedical waste is associated with a huge amount of risk, so the efficient treatment for biomedical waste is most imperative. The review also highlights the current methods for disposal of biomedical waste, biological treatments given to biomedical waste water in the effluent treatment plant, and impacts due to the current method. Management of biomedical waste is a great challenge in developed and developing countries. To manage the biomedical waste there is a need for cost-effective, ecofriendly and less contaminating approaches for a greener and safe environment. The awareness regarding waste management is of great interest not only for the community but also for associated employees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja M Patil
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil University, India
| | - Raghvendra A Bohara
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil University, India
- CÚRAM, SFI., Center for Research in Medical Devices, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|