On the subject matter, the president of Globe chamber of Commerce and industry (GCCI), in the person of Hon. Buchi George stated, from his linkedIn handle that the platform is a gathering that constitute environmental and health stakeholders to discuss environmental health for all.
While outlining some of the healthcare waste and disposal that contribute to environmental hazards, he stated as quote “Health-care waste contains potentially harmful microorganisms that can infect hospital patients, health workers and the general public. Other potential hazards may include drug-resistant microorganisms which spread from health facilities into the environment”.
“Every year an estimated 30billion injections are administered worldwide, but not all of the needles and syringes are properly disposed of afterwards; Open burning and incineration of health care wastes can, under some circumstances, result in the emission of dioxins, furans, and particulate matter”.
“Lack of awareness about the health hazards related to health-care waste, inadequate training in proper waste management, absence of waste management and disposal systems, insufficient financial and human resources and the low priority given to the topic are the most common problems connected with health-care waste” He further assert.
Looking at possible solution the GCCI President Said, management of health-care waste requires increased attention and diligence to avoid adverse health outcomes associated with poor practice, including exposure to infectious agents and toxic substances.
Adding that promoting practices that reduce the volume of wastes generated and ensure proposer waste segregation; developing strategies and systems along with strong oversight and regulation to incrementally improve waste segregation, destruction and disposal practices with the ultimate aim of meeting national and international standards; raising awareness of the risks related to health-care waste, and of safe practices; and selecting safe and environmentally-friendly management options, to protect people from hazards when collecting, handling, storing, transporting, treating or disposing of waste, …..are some ways through which we can protect the environment.
“Government commitment and support is needed for universal, long-term improvement, although immediate action can be taken locally”, he concluded.
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