Dr. Shaneeta Johnson, a surgical professor at Morehouse School of Medicine, says medical waste, specifically hazardous waste, is very costly to dispose and costly for the climate.
New data suggests the American healthcare sector is a significant contributor to climate change. Studies show the U.S. healthcare sector is responsible for nearly 9% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Also, each day, a single patient can produce 30 pounds of medical waste, such as disposable instruments and one-time use plastics.
On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Dr. Johnson talks with show host Rose Scott about medical waste’s impact on the environment and the steps healthcare providers can take to reduce or eliminate medical waste. She also shared why she feels it’s important for hospitals to create sustainability committees, establish medical waste standards and adopt policies that promote reducing medical waste while promoting sustainability.
