Now, compostable bags for bio-medical waste at hospitals

Patiala, May 27

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Continuing its drive against the use of plastic bags, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has decided to replace these with compostable bags for disposal of bio-medical waste at hospitals.

Around 8-10 tonnes of plastic bags are used for storage and disposal of bio-medical waste by health care facilities in the state every month.

PPCB Chairman KS Pannu started the initiative at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, on Saturday.

It was informed that incineration of yellow bags and burning of plastic, especially chlorinated plastic, may result in the release of carcinogenic-persistent pollutants like dioxins and furans into the environment. However, generation of dioxin and other toxic gases was unlikely in case compostable bags are used.

Red bags are autoclaved and then sent for recycling. However, with the introduction of compostable bags, this problem will be resolved too as these bags are dissolved during autoclaving process.

Though compostable bags cost a little more than plastic bags, the former are safer for environment. Hospitals have to use compostable bags as part of their social responsibility and to ensure compliance with law. — TNS