Danderyd Hospital Leads Sweden in Circular Plastic Apron Initiative
Danderyd Hospital pioneers the use of circular plastic aprons in Sweden, reducing reliance on single-use plastics.
Key Points
- • Danderyd Hospital is the first in Sweden to adopt circular plastic aprons.
- • Region Stockholm will provide these aprons to all acute hospitals.
- • The initiative is expected to cut fossil-based plastic incineration by 80 tons annually.
- • Hospital director expresses pride in pioneering this sustainable initiative.
Danderyd Hospital has become the first facility in Sweden to implement circular plastic aprons, a move that underscores its commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. This initiative, which follows a successful pilot project that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to phase out single-use plastics in healthcare environments.
Region Stockholm has begun procuring these eco-friendly aprons for all acute hospitals in the region, highlighting the broader implications of this change. The hospital anticipates a reduction in fossil-based plastic incineration by about 80 tons annually, a significant decrease that will positively affect the region's carbon footprint.
"If all goes as planned, we will be the first hospital in the world to have a circular flow of this plastic product, something we can be proud of," stated Caroline Hällsjö Sander, the hospital director. Johanna Albert, an anesthesiologist at the hospital, emphasized the importance of reducing disposable plastic usage, noting its contribution to lowering carbon emissions across acute hospitals.
Danderyd Hospital, which has a recognized history in providing university healthcare, continues to champion environmental advancements, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable healthcare practices.