Miss GEORGINA MACPHERSON1,3, Dr. DAVID J. TUNNICLIFFE2, Dr MARTIN HOWELL3
1National Drug And Alcohol Research Centre, Randwick, Sydney, Australia , 2Centre for Kidney Research , Westmead, Sydney, Australia , 3Sydney School of Public Health, Camperdown, Sydney, Australia
Aim
To assess the current breadth of literature on practices to reduce water use and waste in dialysis.
Background
Climate change is a risk factor for kidney disease, with high ambient temperatures associated with adverse kidney outcomes. As a resource intensive medical therapy, the carbon footprint of dialysis is substantial. Despite these challenges, the breadth of published scientific research on environmental sustainability in dialysis units is limited.
Methods
We conducted a scoping review of published and grey literature on waste reduction and water reuse in dialysis. We searched MEDLINE and Web of Science in September 2021 using search terms for dialysis, water and waste recycling and reduction. We also searched professional nephrology societies and industry websites. Dual data extraction and critical appraisal (JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists) were undertaken. The findings were described narratively.
Results
Thirteen studies on water reuse, six studies on plastic waste reduction and four industry papers were included. All studies were of good quality. Ten studies examined facilities’ use of dialysis reject water for autoclave machines, as a greywater source and irrigation. Daily water savings ranged from 7000L-14,000L, resulting in cost savings from $1130-$18,500 annually. Single-use plastic accounts for 25-40% of dialysis units’ greenhouse gas emissions. Plastic waste stewardship may have cost savings of up to $1,511,779 annually. Collaborations between hospitals and private industry have successfully transformed plastic waste into a resource, effectively diverting waste from landfill.
Conclusion
The current evidence base on environmental sustainability in dialysis is limited. However, there are efficacious and cost-effective strategies to mitigate the environmental impacts of dialysis impacts. Furthering research and evaluation are necessary to develop blueprints to continue to mitigate the footprint of dialysis.
Biography:
Bio to come.