COVID-19 and medical waste management: challenges and the urgency for systemic change

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only caused a global health crisis but has also posed significant challenges to medical waste management. The rapid increase in waste generation, including used personal protective equipment (PPE), presents a serious threat to the environment and public health. Improper waste management leads to the accumulation of nonbiodegradable plastics and increases the risk of secondary infections, particularly in developing countries where infrastructure is limited. Our review aimed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the scale of medical waste generation, its management, and to assess the environmental and health consequences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, waste generation increased by  18-425%, intensifying pollution and associated health risks. Inadequate disposal practices, including incineration without advanced technologies, release toxic compounds, such as dioxins and heavy metals, adversely affecting air, water, and soil quality. Systemic changes, including improved waste segregation, recycling, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, are necessary to minimize the negative impacts of the pandemic on both the environment and public health and to prevent similar crises in the future. recycling, and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, to minimize the negative impacts of the pandemic on both the environment and public health. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a significant challenge to public health in terms of developing new systems for medical waste management. These measures are crucial for mitigating the negative effects of the pandemic on the environment and public health and preventing similar crises in the future.