Story adapted from original posted on PHC Connect (internal site) by Kathy Kohli, Coordinator, Waste Management & Contract Performance, Providence Health Care.
Providence Health Care (PHC) is proud to announce the success and expansion of its IV Bag and Tubing Recycling Pilot.
Launched on September 3, 2024, at St. Paul’s Hospital (SPH), the initiative has not only met its goals but has also set a new standard for healthcare sustainability in BC. The program is now being rolled out to additional units at SPH and Mount Saint Joseph’s Hospital, further amplifying its impact.
In just three months, the pilot successfully diverted 710 kilograms of plastic waste from landfills. To put this into perspective, this is equivalent to:
- Over 118,000 single-use plastic water bottles saved.
- The weight of a polar bear or a small passenger car.
- Enough material to fill two standard dumpsters.
This milestone underscores the significant environmental footprint of health-care waste and the power of targeted recycling efforts.
Key Success Factors
The pilot’s achievements were driven by collaborative efforts between PHC’s Waste Management, Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC), Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), Clinical Educators, Environmental Services (EVS), and service partner Vitacore.
The participating units—Cardiac Short Stay Unit, Medical Short Stay Unit, and Hemodialysis—embraced:
- Targeted Education: Through tailored signage and regular huddles.
- Optimized Infrastructure: With strategically placed, distinctive bins ensuring waste stream purity.
- Thorough Protocols: For the collection and inspection of recyclable materials.
- Data-Driven Adjustments: Leveraging insights to refine the process.
What Medical Staff Are Saying
I was very happy to see the IV recycling bin come to our antibiotic therapy unit where we use a lot of IV tubing. It’s in a central location, so easy to get to and no issues using it. Easy for all the staff to adapt to the new routine and I haven’t heard anyone complain. We’re all on board with the new recycling initiatives.” – Cheryl Rogers, RN and MSSU_OPAT Sustainability Lead/Champion
The IV bag recycling project is much needed to minimize pollution related to plastic waste and its impact on community health. PHC and its team that has taken this initiative need to be commended for this project and I am proud to be a part of it.” – Ramsay D’souza, Renal Tech Supervisor
What’s Next?
The expansion to other units reflects PHC’s commitment to scaling sustainable practices. The success of this initiative also positions PHC as a leader in healthcare waste management, inspiring other health authorities to adopt similar programs.
Implementing an IV Bag and Tubing recycling initiative—or any waste reduction program—requires strong collaboration, clear education, and a willingness to adapt. Engaging key stakeholders early, including clinical staff, Environmental Services (EVS), Infection Prevention & Control (IPAC), Occupational Heath & Safety (OHS), and waste management partners, is essential to success. Start small, track your impact, and use data to drive expansion. Sustainability in healthcare is achievable when we work together to create meaningful change.” – Waste Management Team, Providence
Thank you to the dedicated staff and partners who made this possible. Together, we’re proving that healthcare excellence and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to pave the way for a greener future in healthcare.
