Reduction

NHS organisations should aspire to at least match the targets set for the Sustainable Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE) targets in managing the different waste streams – this includes reduction in waste arisings by 5% by 2010 and by 25% by 2020, relative to 2004/2005 levels.

Responses to the draft Carbon Reduction Strategy highlighted a strong desire amongst NHS staff to reduce the use and disposal of single use items.

The waste created by over purchase and oversubscription of Pharmaceuticals.

To pursue this, further work is needed to review current practices and to ensure all standards and legislation governing staff and patient safety are met, in accordance with DH HTM 01-01 series - Decontamination of Reusable Medical Devices, whilst taking account of associated waste and carbon emissions reduction issues.