Photo: Messenger
In recent years, the issue of medical waste management has become a significant concern worldwide due to insufficient treatment and disposal methods. This problem carries serious health and environmental risks, including potential infections, diseases, and health hazards for healthcare workers and the public. Moreover, it contributes to environmental pollution, contaminates water sources and leads to air pollution.
Such mismanagement can erode public trust in healthcare institutions, disrupt ecological balance, and impose long-term economic costs on both communities and governments. As Bangladesh grapples with these challenges, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions to ensure a safer, cleaner, and healthier environment.
The Lingering Predicament
Bangladesh faces severe consequences due to inadequate legislation and a lack of a comprehensive waste management plan. According to a study published in 2022, medical waste generation in Dhaka is estimated to be 1.63-1.99 kg per bed per day, with a significant increase after the COVID-19 pandemic. For a long time, the country’s management of medical waste has been inadequate, with no safe system for segregating, transporting, treating, and disposing of waste. The challenge is even more pronounced in regions with vulnerable populations, such as the Rohingya refugee camps, where infrastructure and resources are limited.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has made commendable efforts by establishing five medical waste management facilities in the Cox’s Bazar district’s Teknaf, Ukhiya, Chakaria, Ramu, and Pekua health complexes between 2015 and 2021. Additionally, several organisations, including PRISM Bangladesh, Waste Concern, the Centre for Sustainable Development (CSD), the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO), and the International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research (ICDDR, B), are working tirelessly to mitigate the dangers of mismanaged medical waste. PRISM Bangladesh, for instance, focuses on improving health and the environment by providing training, awareness, collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal services for medical waste. However, despite these efforts, the problem persists, affecting people across Bangladesh.
The Promise of Technology
As we pivot towards a tech-driven future, harnessing technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data can revolutionize medical waste management in Bangladesh. These technologies offer promising solutions to mitigate health and environmental hazards while optimising efficiency:
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI can optimise waste management processes through predictive analytics and image recognition. By analyzing data from various sources, AI can predict waste generation patterns, identify hotspots, and suggest efficient collection and disposal routes. AI-powered image recognition systems can also improve waste segregation by accurately identifying and categorising different types of waste, ensuring proper disposal and treatment.
Blockchain
Blockchain technology ensures transparency and traceability in waste management processes. By creating a decentralised ledger of waste transactions, blockchain can track waste from its point of origin to its final disposal, reducing the risk of illegal dumping and ensuring accountability. This transparency can also help build public trust in the waste management system.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT devices offer real-time monitoring of waste fill levels and GPS tracking, preventing overflows and optimising collection schedules. Sensors placed in waste bins can alert waste management teams when bins are full, ensuring timely collection and reducing the risk of waste spillage. GPS tracking can also improve the efficiency of waste transportation, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Big Data Analytics
Big Data analytics provide insights into waste generation patterns and compliance, helping policymakers make informed decisions. By analysing large datasets, waste management authorities can identify trends, allocate resources more effectively, and develop targeted interventions to reduce waste generation and improve waste management practices.
Tech Innovations in Developing Nations
Several developing nations have successfully integrated technology into their waste management systems, providing valuable lessons for Bangladesh:
China
China has implemented an IoT-based medical waste monitoring system that employs AI and face recognition to track waste generation and disposal. This system has improved the accuracy and efficiency of waste management processes, reducing environmental pollution and health risks.
Turkey
Turkey’s waste management solution integrates IoT and blockchain technologies to bolster transparency and accountability. By ensuring that waste is properly tracked and documented, Turkey has reduced instances of illegal dumping and improved public confidence in waste management efforts.
India
India has applied AI for household waste classification, improving waste segregation and recycling rates. By automating the classification process, India has reduced human error and increased the efficiency of waste management operations.
Thailand
Thailand’s image recognition-based system enhances waste sorting, reducing contamination and improving the quality of recycled materials. This technology has helped Thailand increase its recycling rates and reduce its reliance on landfill disposal.
Singapore
Singapore employs IoT devices for real-time waste level tracking, optimising waste collection schedules and reducing operational costs. By using IoT sensors, Singapore has improved the efficiency and sustainability of its waste management system.
Recommendations for Bangladesh
Bangladesh can consider adopting these innovations in tech-driven medical waste management by assessing local needs, tailoring technology to fit the local context, and implementing pilot projects to test new solutions. The following recommendations outline a path toward a sustainable solution:
Assess Local Needs:
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current medical waste management system to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Engage with stakeholders, including healthcare providers, waste management companies, and local communities, to understand their needs and priorities.
Tailor Technology: Adapt technology solutions to fit the local context and address specific challenges. Collaborate with technology providers to customise solutions that meet the unique needs of Bangladesh’s waste management system.
Implement AI and IoT:
Deploy AI and IoT technologies to optimise waste management processes. Use AI-powered predictive analytics to anticipate waste generation patterns and optimise collection routes. Implement IoT sensors in waste bins to monitor fill levels and improve collection efficiency.
Train Stakeholders: Provide training and capacity-building programs for healthcare workers, waste handlers, and government officials to ensure they have the skills and knowledge needed to implement and sustain new technologies.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Develop and enforce robust regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with waste management standards. Implement penalties for non-compliance and provide incentives for adopting sustainable waste management practices.
Pilot Projects:
Launch pilot projects in select regions to test new technologies and approaches. Use these projects to gather data, evaluate outcomes, and refine solutions before scaling them up nationwide.
Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations to pool resources and expertise. Encourage public-private partnerships to drive innovation and investment in waste management technologies.
Continuous Improvement: Establish mechanisms for continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of waste management practices. Use data and feedback to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances.
The Role of Government Initiatives
The government can play a crucial role in catalysting change and fostering the adoption of innovative waste management solutions. By providing leadership, resources, and support, the government can empower stakeholders to embrace new technologies and approaches.
Key government initiatives include:
Policy Frameworks: Develop comprehensive policy frameworks that outline clear guidelines and standards for medical waste management. Ensure that these frameworks are aligned with international best practices and are regularly updated to reflect new developments.
Capacity Building: Invest in capacity-building programs to equip stakeholders with the skills and knowledge needed to implement and sustain new waste management solutions. Provide training, resources, and technical support to healthcare providers, waste handlers, and government officials.
Funding and Incentives: Allocate funding and resources to support the implementation of innovative waste management solutions. Provide financial incentives for healthcare facilities and waste management companies that adopt sustainable practices.
Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of proper medical waste management and the role of technology in improving waste management practices. Engage with local communities to build trust and support for new initiatives.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster collaboration and partnerships between the government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations. Encourage joint initiatives and knowledge-sharing to drive innovation and investment in waste management technologies.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s medical waste management demands immediate attention. By embracing AI, IoT, and other technologies, Bangladesh can revolutionise waste management, protecting public health and the environment. Government initiatives can catalyse this change, foster collaborations, and empower stakeholders to adopt and sustain these innovative solutions. The future of sustainable medical waste management in Bangladesh lies in its technological transformation.
By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines technology, policy, and collaboration, Bangladesh can address the pressing challenges of medical waste management and create a safer, cleaner, and healthier environment for all. The time to act is now, and the path to a sustainable solution lies in the embrace of innovation and technology.
The writer is a Public Health Expert, Associate Professor, CDCH and Executive Member, Bangladesh Awami Jubo League.
Messenger/Disha
