An average operation produces 27 kilos of waste in disposable gowns, sterile packaging, mouth masks and gloves. Operations assistant Talitha Hoppe of the OLVG hospital in Amsterdam thought things had to change and started a sustainability campaign.
In operating room 14, Hoppe shows bluewraps in which all instruments are sterilely packed. “Previously they were thrown away and burned, now we collect them and make new products from them,” says Hoppe in the television program Pak An Groen. Staplers used for gastric reduction and stapling of intestines are now also being recycled.
Chemo bike
The healthcare sector is responsible for seven percent of total CO2 emissions. That is why most hospitals now have a sustainability coordinator. In the OLVG, that is Marleen Kuyt, who mainly tackles the buildings themselves with triple glazing, floor tiles made from demolition waste, solar panels, a thermal storage system (heat and cold storage) and a green roof. In addition, there is a sustainable mobility policy. Staff who come by public transport, on foot or by bicycle receive a higher mileage allowance. There are also online outpatient consultations and a chemo bicycle, so that patients can receive chemotherapy at home.
Grab an Green
More and more North Hollanders are taking action to tackle climate change. Residents change their lifestyle, buy responsibly and insulate their homes. Entrepreneurs see opportunities and break new ground with sustainable products and services. You can see it every Tuesday on TV in the program Pak An Groen.
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