A New Life for PVC Waste
Care Process & Redesign
Environmental Sustainability
Organisational Leadership
National University Health System Quality Improvement
National University Health System
31 December 2023
Implement a sustainable recycling system for PVC waste, aiming for a 10% recycling rate within 7 months. The project demonstrated scalable potential for recycling initiatives within healthcare settings.
Year Submitted: 2023
Published Date: 31 December 2023
Tags: Organisational Leadership, Care Process ＆ Redesign, Environmental Sustainability, Change Management, Behavioural Change, System Change, Operational Management, Supply Chain, Recycling, Food ＆ Plastic Waste
About this Content
Aims
Implement a sustainable recycling system for PVC waste, aiming for a 10% recycling rate within 7 months.
Background
Over 20,000kg of PVC waste is generated annually at NUH, previously disposed of through incineration, contributing to significant CO2 emissions.
Methods
Developed dedicated recycling workflows, partnered with a PVC recycling firm, and conducted staff education.
Results
Exceeded the 10% target by April 2023, saving 8,875 kgCO2e, equivalent to 46,219 km driven by car.
Conclusion
The project demonstrated scalable potential for recycling initiatives within healthcare settings.
Lessons Learnt
Mindset change takes time; perseverance and multidisciplinary collaboration are crucial for success.
Additional Information
NUH QIX Award (Merit) Winner for Jan-Apr 2023
Keywords
Recycling, PVC, Sustainability, Healthcare Waste, Carbon Emissions Reduction
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System |
Organization(s) Involved | National University Hospital |
Platform(s) | National University Health System Quality Improvement |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Healthcare Administration, Nursing, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Anaesthesiology, Healthcare Administrators |
Project Lead(s) | Andrea Yap |
Project Member(s) | Gerald Ho |
Connect with this contributor!
Dr. Andrea Yap - andreapyap@gmail.com