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Towards Zero-Waste Operating Theatres
University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, UK
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) and the Bristol and Weston Procurement Consortium are committed to supporting the transition to a circular economy and have identified a requirement for new solutions and alternative products that will support a transition to Zero Waste Operating Theatres.
The UK NHS disposes of around 600,000 tons of waste each year, around 133,000 tons of which is plastic. Operating theatres are known to be the most resource-intensive area of the hospital, generating as much as 30% of hospital waste. Much of this waste volume is single use plastic (SUP), the majority of which is packaging.
This joint statement of demand describes the current situation and its limitations, why innovation is needed, and the outcomes required of new and alternative solutions. It is being launched with the support of NHS England and NHS Improvement and Healthcare Without Harm Europe.
The project Joint Statement of Demand, can be found here
In advance of the formal tendering process, we are launching a period of market sounding to provide potential suppliers with advance notice of the tender and to consult with the supply chain and innovation networks. Please find details of the market consultation here
Project contact: Sam Willitts