HOSPITAL WASTE DISPOSAL AND SUSTAINABILITY: ENVIRONMENTAL, SANITARY, AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS IN HEALTHCARE WASTE MANAGEMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev8n6-072Keywords:
Circular Economy, Waste Management, Environmental Impact, Healthcare Waste, SustainabilityAbstract
Proper management of healthcare waste is a significant challenge in the contemporary context, especially given the increase in hospital production and the environmental, sanitary, and social impacts associated with its improper disposal. This study aims to analyze the environmental, sanitary, and social implications of hospital waste disposal, with an emphasis on sustainability and the management of healthcare waste. This is an integrative literature review, conducted in databases such as SciELO, PubMed, Latindex, and Diadorim, considering publications between 2022 and 2026, in Portuguese and English. The final sample consisted of 16 studies that addressed the management of hospital waste from different perspectives, including technological innovation, circular economy, environmental impacts, and professional practice. The results show that the improper disposal of healthcare waste is associated with significant environmental risks, such as soil, water, and air contamination, as well as relevant sanitary and social repercussions. The need to strengthen public policies, train professionals, and incorporate sustainable technologies to improve the management of this waste was also observed. It is concluded that sustainability is an essential element for the effective management of healthcare waste, and that the integration of institutional practices, environmental policies, and continuing education is fundamental.
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