Nursing teams in the Emergency Department and Birth Suite at Mercy Hospital for Women (MHW) are making a big difference by reducing waste and helping the environment.
Over the past two years, the teams have recycled over two tonnes (more than 2,000 kilograms) of single-use metal instruments. Instead of going to landfill, these materials are now being reused through a metal recycling program. On average, the teams recycle about 150 kilograms of metal each month.
In late 2023, staff recognised that single-use metal instruments were being thrown away after just one use, even though they require significant energy and resources to produce. This led the teams to take action and find a more sustainable solution.
To make the program safe and effective, the nursing teams worked closely with sustainability, health and safety, infection control, and environmental services teams. Together, they created a clear process to:
- collect used metal instruments
- safely clean them
- transport and store them
- arrange for recycling collection
This ensures the instruments are handled properly while still being diverted from landfill.
This initiative supports Mercy Health’s Caring for People and Planet Strategy: Our Path Forward 2026–2028, which focuses on reducing environmental impact while continuing to provide high-quality care.
By turning waste into a resource, the teams are showing how small changes in everyday work can lead to meaningful environmental outcomes. Their efforts demonstrate a practical way healthcare can reduce its footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
