I sat on a panel discussion at IDSA National last year where we discussed this, and the concept of “resposables” which means limiting what’s disposable, and mazimizing what’s re-usable.
Recylable typically isn’t an option. If they’re bio-hazardous waste, they are tyipcally incinerated and toxins are vaporized into the atmosphere.
Designers can:
- Join the “Designers Accord”
- Work to minimize waste, leverage the resposables concept
- For those parts which are disposed of, ensure green materials. Ideally sustainable, and definitely not toxic.
- Promote sustainability as a selling point. There are GPO’s (group purchasing organizations) which actually differentiate themselves this way!