Reducing MedTech’s Environmental Impact: The Power of Circularity

Healthcare is an essential sector, but it is also a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 8.5% of U.S. emissions and 4.5% worldwide. Of this, medtech products—ranging from single-use disposables to high-tech diagnostic devices—are responsible for about a third of the emissions and much of the waste. The good news is that over 50% of these emissions and a large portion of the waste could be reduced through circularity. 

Circularity in the medtech industry means using fewer materials, focusing on reuse, and recycling products at the end of their life. This approach does not just reduce carbon emissions but also helps to improve the quality and longevity of products. 

If the goal of medtech is to improve patient health, then it is critical that companies also consider the environmental implications of their products. Here’s how medtech companies can harness circularity to create a more sustainable future while improving their bottom line. 

The Role of Circularity in Reducing MedTech’s Environmental Impact 

Circularity is a game-changer in reducing environmental harm. By shifting from the traditional “take, make, waste” model to a more sustainable “reduce, reuse, recycle” approach, medtech companies can achieve significant reductions in waste and carbon emissions. This transformation requires looking at the entire product lifecycle—from raw material sourcing to product end-of-life disposal. 

Several companies are already seeing the benefits. NewGen Surgical, for example, has developed a biobased emesis basin that reduces CO2 emissions by 80%, while Mölnlycke’s biobased surgical drapes produce 20% fewer emissions than their conventional counterparts. Similarly, academic research has shown that remanufacturing medical catheters can reduce CO2 emissions by 50%. 

By adopting circularity, medtech companies can also reduce costs, differentiate their products in the market, and enhance product quality—all while contributing to environmental sustainability. 

Circularity in Action: How MedTech Can Drive Change 

Medtech companies can integrate circularity in several areas across their value chain. The first step is understanding that local regulations surrounding recycling, waste management, and carbon emissions vary across regions. Therefore, companies must stay up to date on these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or operational disruptions. 

Let us explore some of the main circularity levers medtech companies can leverage: 

1. Raw Materials: Using biobased or recycled materials for production is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions. Materials like bioplastics reduce carbon footprints by up to 80%. Companies like Mölnlycke and NewGen Surgical are already utilizing biobased materials in their products, achieving significant environmental benefits.
2. Design: Product design plays a crucial role in determining resource usage, durability, and recyclability. Medtech companies can create more sustainable products by focusing on light-weighting, energy efficiency, and multi-use designs. For example, the Dexcom G7 glucose monitor uses 20% less plastic and significantly reduces packaging waste.
3. Manufacturing and Distribution: Medtech companies can reduce carbon emissions in manufacturing by transitioning to renewable energy and reducing material waste. Additionally, by optimizing transportation methods and reducing packaging waste, companies can further minimize their carbon footprint.
4. Product Use: Extending the useful life of medical devices, such as MRI machines, through predictive maintenance, software upgrades, and repair services, can drastically reduce waste and emissions. Implementing a product-as-a-service model, where devices are leased and maintained by the manufacturer, can further enhance sustainability.
5. Collection, Recycling, and Refurbishing: Once a product reaches its end of life, it should be collected, refurbished, and recycled. Companies like Stryker and Johnson & Johnson are already leading the way by collecting used devices, refurbishing them, and returning them to hospitals. This reduces waste and the need for new materials.

Overcoming the Challenges to Circularity 

Despite the clear environmental and financial benefits, many medtech companies face challenges when trying to implement circularity. Concerns over the performance of biobased materials, regulatory hurdles, and logistical challenges around collecting and sterilizing used products are some of the key obstacles. 

However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Medtech companies can collaborate with suppliers to create sustainable material markets and work closely with hospitals to streamline the collection and sterilization of used devices. Additionally, regulators will need to adapt their policies to support circularity efforts, such as allowing for the reprocessing of medical devices. 

Why MedTech Needs Circularity Now More Than Ever 

The medtech sector cannot afford to ignore the environmental impact of its products. Circularity presents a powerful opportunity to not only reduce waste and emissions but also improve business performance. Companies that embrace circularity stand to gain a competitive edge, build stronger brands, and benefit from cost savings and innovation. 

How BioBoston Consulting Can Help 

At BioBoston Consulting, we specialize in helping medtech companies navigate the complexities of circularity. Our team of experts can guide you through the process of assessing your carbon footprint, identifying potential circularity levers, and developing a customized sustainability strategy. Whether you are just beginning to explore circularity or looking to scale your initiatives, we can provide the tools and expertise you need to achieve your environmental and business goals. 

Ready to start your circularity journey? Contact BioBoston Consulting today to learn how we can help you transform your medtech products for a more sustainable future.