ASSESSMENT OF MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN BANGLADESH WITH EMPHASIZING EFFECTIVE RECYCLING INITIATIVES

Abstract

Bangladesh's handling of medical waste is a complex challenge due to factors such as population increase, fast urbanization, and insufficient infrastructure. The goal of this study is to evaluate waste management techniques, with a focus on recycling programs. Extensive data was collected over a five-year period to assess these practices, with a particular emphasis on recycling programs. Concurrently, extensive tests were carried out on concrete blends to evaluate their strength and absorption capabilities using plastic chips made from medical waste. The study emphasizes how important it is to support recycling programs as a pillar for accomplishing sustainable waste management across the country. The COVID-19 pandemic's start has had a significant influence on the waste generation patterns examined from 2019 to 2023 in eight hospitals under the Dhaka City Corporation. There is a noticeable decrease in the amount of recyclable waste, even though infectious waste is still common. Furthermore, there is a decrease in sharp waste, which may be related to improvements in medical science or technology. The incorporation of plastic trash into concrete formulations has been subjected to extensive testing, which has revealed subtle effects on a range of properties. These findings underscore the potential for promoting sustainable construction methods. Promising improvements include the addition of plastic at specified percentages to improve the strength of concrete and the management of infectious debris. These developments, meanwhile, are in opposition to the decreasing management of recyclable waste. Although adding more plastic to concrete can have significant positive effects on sustainability, large-scale construction projects may not be able to fully utilize this strategy due to structural requirements and performance criteria. It is essential to thoroughly evaluate structural requirements in order to guarantee the performance and safety of the optimized mixture. For construction applications including mat foundations, flexible pavements, pavement blocks, and landscaping features, the optimal plastic content in concrete can be used, providing durability, versatility, and sustainability.