WASTE MANAGEMENT
A Rethink on Reuse
The concept is beginning to permeate all sectors, but how does the practice of reusing resources benefit the care sector? Here, Paul Hamilton, Technical Director of Regenex, looks at what can be kept and used for longer periods of time.
UK businesses and organisations, including those in the care sector, have developed a keen focus on recycling in recent years. In our efforts to ramp up our environmental policies, we make sure our waste goes to the right place, and that it avoids landfill wherever possible.
This is good, commendable practice. But did you know that reusing the resources you have, or not buying them in the first place, is even better?
The concept of reuse is really beginning to permeate all sectors. Getting the most out of every resource at work – whatever that item is – represents exemplary practice. When we recycle items, another process is always involved. Textiles are ragged for new purposes, and glass is melted in a furnace and re-made. All this takes energy and therefore more carbon.
Developing thriſty habits and keeping and using things for longer is far preferable. That’s why reuse is listed as the second best option for what to do with something instead of simply throwing it ‘away’, in the well-established and respected Waste Hierarchy. This ranking of waste management options, by what is most beneficial for the environment, is endorsed by the UK Government and others, and recognised as guidance for best practice.
“Recycling is only the third best
process on the list of five, followed by other forms of recovery and disposal to landfill or incineration.”
Recycling is only the third best process on the list of five, followed by other forms of recovery and disposal to landfill or incineration.
So, what can the care sector keep and use for longer? This is difficult, given the high standards that must be maintained, and the necessary disposables involved across operations. You will be able to make a list. This is likely to include textiles. It can be
- 44 -
comparatively easy to make improvements in the management of linen – from bedding and towels to tableware and staff uniforms.
Historically, much linen has been condemned too early in its lifecycle, simply because it is marked or discoloured. Now, with advancing technology, that linen can be rescued, revived, and returned to stock for many more washes.
Regenex can successfully clean up to 80% of the most heavily marked linen, removing stains caused by food, iodine, rust, mould, and other substances. When blemishes cannot be fully removed, dyeing or over-dyeing is an option, for example, renewing towels by colouring them in rich hues.
Though some water and energy are involved in Regenex’s multi-bath process, it is much less than the carbon associated
www.tomorrowscare.co.uk
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50
