Sustainable Dentistry How-to Guide: Waste

Disposing of our waste and sending it to landfill or incineration has a major environmental impact through release of greenhouse gases and pollution of air, land and water. However, more than 90% of the environmental impact of most products occurs in manufacture and distribution, i.e. before a packet is ever opened. So, where possible, we need to reduce the purchase and use of items in the first place to achieve the greatest environmental (and financial) savings. A ‘Reduce-Reuse-Recycle’ policy in the dental surgery, reception, waiting room and staff areas will help to minimise waste and divert from landfill and incineration, saving money and reducing emissions. 

In this Section… How to: