McKinsey & Company: Paper, Forest Products & Packaging

Paper, forest products, and packaging are commonly used in the healthcare industry for a variety of purposes. Some examples include:

Medical records: Paper is often used to create and store medical records, such as charts, lab results, and prescriptions.

Packaging: Forest products, such as cardboard, are used to package and transport medical supplies and equipment.

Disposable products: Paper and forest products are also commonly used to create disposable products, such as surgical gowns, face masks, and examination gloves.

Marketing and communication materials: Paper is used to create marketing and communication materials, such as brochures, flyers and posters. The use of paper and forest products in healthcare can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment. On one hand, these materials are renewable and can be sustainably sourced. On the other hand, the production, use, and disposal of these materials can consume energy and resources and generate waste.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in reducing the environmental impact of paper and forest products in healthcare. This can be achieved through a variety of strategies, such as:

-Reducing the use of paper and print materials, by implementing electronic health records (EHRs) and other digital communication tools.

Using recycled or sustainably sourced paper and forest products.

Implementing recycling and composting programs for paper and forest products waste.

Implementing sustainable packaging solution

By taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of paper and forest products, healthcare providers can help to protect the environment and promote sustainability.