Background: Medical Waste – A Silent Crisis:

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the COVID-19 response has generated approximately 87,000 tonnes of personal protective equipment (PPE) waste, putting tremendous strain on health care waste management systems globally . This surge in medical waste threatens human and environmental health, underscoring the need for improved waste management practices. World Health Organization

Case Studies

United States:

Despite having advanced waste treatment facilities, the U.S. faced challenges in managing the increased volume of medical waste during peak COVID-19 periods. The WHO projected a monthly demand of 89 million medical masks and 76 million gloves, leading to a significant rise in disposable PPE production and subsequent waste.

• Key insight: Institutional strength alone does not ensure preparedness without systemic coordination in pandemic scenarios.

China:

China, particularly in Wuhan, experienced a dramatic increase in medical waste:

• Medical waste in Wuhan rose from about 40 tons per day to a peak of 247 tons per day during the pandemic.
• The daily treatment capacity in Wuhan increased from 50 tons before the outbreak to 265.6 tons per day. covid-19.chinadaily.com.cn

China implemented rapid scaling of incineration and waste disinfection units alongside strict quarantine protocols to manage the surge.

Egypt:

Egypt's response involved coordinated efforts between multiple ministries:

• The Ministry of Health and Population and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement to expand waste management in the health sector, including the establishment of a new facility in Suez to handle hazardous medical waste.
• The Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) was prepared to manage environmental and social risks associated with the COVID-19 response, emphasizing the enhancement of medical waste management systems.
• The COVID-19 Socio-Economic Response and Recovery Plan included support for the enhancement of municipal and medical waste management to reduce risks of contracting COVID-19 from infected waste.

Conclusion & Recommendations:

The management of medical waste during the COVID-19 pandemic offers valuable lessons:

• Preparedness requires coordination: Effective management is not solely about capacity but also about coordination across public health, environmental, and digital sectors.
• Digitization enhances monitoring: Implementing digital tracking systems can improve real-time monitoring and response.
• Invest in local solutions: Public-private partnerships and inclusive governance are crucial for building resilient waste infrastructure aligned with SDG 12 and SDG 17.

Acknowledgment:

This white paper was developed based on visual data presented by Envairous, as part of its environmental communication and awareness campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic.