Dive Brief:
- GE Healthcare conducted a study finding that a switch to polymer bottles from the currently used glass material significantly reduces the container’s impact on the environment.
- The advantages of using polymer bottles include fewer carbon emissions during packaging and transport, and the use of less disposal resources.
- Another selling point for polymer, according to the study, is a reduction of disposal costs. Polymer could potentially reduce the cost for certain medical departments by 78% compared to the waste costs for glass containers.
Dive Insight:
This report could actually lead to widespread change in healthcare facilities' behavior. According to a Harris Poll conducted on behalf of Johnson & Johnson in September, 54% of global health workers said that the hospital where they are employed factors sustainability into purchasing decisions. Furthermore, 80% are expected to consider environmental solutions within the next two years.