World Water Day: The NHS Water Action Agenda
March 22nd was World Water Day, a day dedicated to our most precious resource! Since 1993, the UN has rallied the world around water on March 22nd, and this year is no different. Here at Sustainability Partnerships, we're making a splash with water conversation! Our recent webinar dived deep into innovative solutions that can help the NHS become a water warrior.
Meet our Speakers:
Paul Chivers, Innovation & Sustainability Consultant at Mackwell Health
Oli Shelley, Head of Operations at Wave
The White Box UV-C: Reprocessing for Sustainability
Paul Chivers from Mackwell Health introduced the White Box UV-C, a medical device designed to clean and reuse anaesthetic masks. This innovation not only addresses the challenge of PPE shortages but also tackles the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Paul traced the technology's origins to its Nobel Prize-winning roots, explaining its adaptation to modern needs.
The presentation covered the White Box's rigorous certification process and its innovative two-stage cleaning method using hypochlorous acid and UVC light, specifically designed for effective decontamination of non-flat surfaces.
Beyond masks, the White Box's compact design and versatile functionality were highlighted. Additionally, the use of LED technology ensures precise control of light intensity and extended equipment lifespan.
The environmental benefits of the White Box were a key focus. Compared to traditional washer disinfectors, the White Box significantly reduces water, power consumption, and carbon emissions. This focus on sustainability directly addresses the vast amount of single-use masks currently used in healthcare facilities.
Positive feedback from ongoing trials at Northampton General Hospital underlined the user-friendliness and efficiency of the White Box. Financial considerations were also addressed, with projections demonstrating a rapid return on investment for healthcare facilities adopting this technology. Paul concluded by inviting collaboration to explore expanding the White Box's application to other medical devices.
The Looming Water Crisis: A Call to Action
Oli Shelly of Wave Utilities followed Chivers' presentation by addressing the pressing need for water conservation, particularly among non-household consumers. Despite the UK's perception of abundant water resources, Shelly emphasised the potential water scarcity crisis projected for 2050. Population growth, excessive water extraction, and climate change were identified as key contributors.
Businesses, especially high water consumers like the healthcare sector, were identified as having a crucial role to play. Shelly stressed the importance of collaboration to meet ambitious government water reduction targets. Strategies like smart metering for leak detection and water balances to optimise usage and identify areas for reuse were discussed.
Wave Utilities' "Making a Pledge Campaign" was introduced as an initiative fostering water conservation commitment among businesses. Healthcare organisations were urged to participate and explore further water-saving opportunities within their operations.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Solutions
The Q&A session explored the challenges and solutions associated with reducing reliance on single-use plastics and conserving water in hospitals.
By showcasing innovative technologies and fostering collaboration around water conservation efforts, the healthcare sector can move towards a more sustainable future.