Sustainable Practices in Orthopedic Joint Manufacturing
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Kawamura Haruo, Nishino Tomofumi, Mishima Hajime
Primary Institution: Kenpoku Medical Center Takahagi Kyodo Hospital, Ibaraki, JPN
Hypothesis
What is the current status of orthopedic artificial joint manufacturers regarding recycling and reduction of packaging materials and their Sustainable Development Goal initiatives?
Conclusion
The display of recycling symbols on packaging materials is low, and efforts to reduce and recycle packaging materials and unused products are generally insufficient among manufacturers.
Supporting Evidence
- 14 out of 16 companies responded to the survey, indicating a response rate of 85.7%.
- Only 43% of companies were working to reduce plastic packaging materials.
- Recycling symbol display rates were as low as 14% for packaging materials.
Takeaway
This study looked at how orthopedic companies are handling waste from joint replacements. Most companies aren't doing enough to recycle or reduce packaging waste.
Methodology
A questionnaire survey was conducted with 16 companies selling artificial joints in Japan, analyzing their responses regarding packaging materials and SDG initiatives.
Limitations
The study did not survey all joint prosthesis manufacturers globally, and some companies may have avoided answering difficult questions.
Participant Demographics
The survey included 4 Japanese and 12 foreign companies engaged in the manufacture and sale of orthopedic artificial joints.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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