Johnson & Johnson MedTech, together with Heatherwood Hospital, part of the NHS Frimley Health Foundation Trust, introduce a new initiative aimed at turning surgical waste into comfort for young patients.
Each year, Heatherwood Hospital utilises approximately 4,500 kg of surgical sterile wrap, a material critical for maintaining the sterilisation of surgical equipment in operating theatres. Recognising the need to support the hospital's sustainability goals, Johnson & Johnson MedTech worked closely with Heatherwood Hospital to establish a recycling program that prioritises waste segregation and promotes eco-friendly practices.
This resulted in a unique project being launched that transformed recycled surgical wrap into teddy bears for children undergoing medical treatment at Frimley Park Hospital and Wexham Park Hospital. This thoughtful initiative not only provided colourful companions for young patients, but also raised awareness among hospital staff about the importance of integrating sustainable practices within healthcare settings.
"The idea was to introduce something novel that could cultivate a sustainability-focused culture here at Heatherwood,” stated Colin Brady, theatre matron at Heatherwood Hospital. “When Johnson & Johnson MedTech presented us with recycling options for this waste material - including tote bags, rugs, and construction materials - the teddy bears naturally emerged as the perfect choice to integrate back into the care setting."
Since the project's launch, the initiative has successfully diverted 3,590 kg of surgical wrap from waste, equivalent to the carbon footprint of driving 51,142 miles in a car. The enthusiastic response from staff at Heatherwood Hospital underscores the project's potential as a pioneering model for future sustainability endeavours.
“By developing an engaging and supportive recycling system, we are empowering theatre staff to seamlessly incorporate waste segregation into their daily practices. This initiative lays the groundwork for a more sustainability-focused culture, illustrating that when we prioritise responsible practices, we can indeed transform waste into wonder,” noted Colin.
Through this collaboration with Johnson & Johnson MedTech, Heatherwood Hospital is setting the standard for innovative recycling practices in healthcare, providing not just comfort for children but also a heartwarming reminder of the positive impact of sustainability.