Resilient and sustainable nonwoven supply: Opportunities and hindrances in the healthcare sector.

Other conference contribution, 2025

Purpose
Many critical healthcare single use products are made abroad from fossil based non-woven materials and are sent for combustion after use. This study aimed to find opportunities and hindrances for more climate friendly, resilient, and circular supply chain solutions for these products. There are many studies pointing to sustainability by using recycled and renewable
raw materials and improving recyclability of plastics. Non-woven materials, especially in healthcare, suffer from several challenges, but also present opportunities, in the needed circular development.
Design/methodology/approach
The study included actors from material production, product manufacturing and use phase.
Together with researchers, tests were performed in collection of used materials, cleaning, and tests of new raw materials. Statistics and life cycle assessment data were used to estimate carbon footprint improvement potentials and focus group workshops with professionals, were used to discuss opportunities and hinders.
Findings
The non-woven products used in healthcare have a significant climate impact. Holistic multi-disciplinary research is needed. Logistics and disinfection technologies need further development for efficient handling of non-woven products in healthcare. Solutions for high-mix, low volumes of plastic recycling need further research. Circular transition in the healthcare sector and public procurement is desirable.
Practical, societal and research implications
By using both recycled and/or bio-based materials that can be recycled in the next stage, there is a potential to reduce carbon emissions by over 75%.
Original/value
The study contributes empirical research along the whole circular value chain, showing practical tests connected to theoretical analysis and data on flows.