Interprofessional Collaboration Through Leadership Initiatives: Eco-Friendly Cost Effective Strategy
Abstract
Background/Introduction: The world is increasingly adopting environmentally friendly practices to combat ecological degradation caused by single-use products. While these items offer convenience, their widespread use contributes significantly to waste generation. To address this issue, we identified the introduction of recycled tissues as a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Methodology: A multidisciplinary team was formed, including representatives from the Department of Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology (DIPHE), the Office of Environment and Sustainability, and the Purchase and Supply Chain Management Division (PSCMD). We conducted a pre-and post-analysis to identify necessary changes, supported by a literature review to ensure patient and staff safety with the introduction of recycled paper tissues. Experts in microbiology, infectious disease, and infection control reviewed the proposed solution against international best practice guidelines, focusing on the recycling process and its effectiveness in eliminating microorganisms. Microbiological and laboratory tests were performed, and updates from manufacturers were requested. After thorough expert reviews, procurement was approved by the Environment and Sustainability office. The PSCMD team presented multiple tissue products to DIPHE, ultimately selecting a pro-recycled tissue known for its quick-drying and non-sticky properties.
Results: The initiative yielded significant cost savings alongside environmental benefits. A comparison of pre-and post-consumption data from October 2023 to March 2024 with the following six months showed that introducing pro-recycled tissue products saved Rs. PKR 7,233,368, representing a 15% reduction in costs compared to previous products. Importantly, the quality and quantity of tissue usage remained consistent, with no pilferage observed, further reducing costs. These tissues, made from recycled paper and cardboard, maintain the same user experience and are projected to save around 6,000 trees annually.
Conclusion: Our transition to eco-friendly products reflects a strong commitment to sustainability in healthcare. We plan to explore additional innovative options while continuously evaluating these changes to ensure environmental safety and patient well-being. The successful replacement of traditional tissue and toilet paper with recycled alternatives, approved by Infection Control, demonstrates this commitment.
Notes
References:
Shan Liu, Jiayi Joey Yu, Tianjun Feng, The impact of green innovations on firm’s sustainable operations: Process innovation and recycling innovation, Omega,Volume 130,2025, 103170, ISSN 0305-0483, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.omega.2024.103170.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030504832400135X)
Sigma Membership
Non-member
Type
Presentation
Format Type
Text-based Document
Study Design/Type
Other
Research Approach
Other
Keywords:
Global Leadership, Interprofessional or Interdisciplinary, Interprofessional Initiatives, Recycling Initiatives
Recommended Citation
Roshanali Essani, Rozina, "Interprofessional Collaboration Through Leadership Initiatives: Eco-Friendly Cost Effective Strategy" (2025). International Nursing Research Congress (INRC). 93.
https://www.sigmarepository.org/inrc/2025/presentations_2025/93
Conference Name
36th International Nursing Research Congress
Conference Host
Sigma Theta Tau International
Conference Location
Seattle, Washington, USA
Conference Year
2025
Rights Holder
All rights reserved by the author(s) and/or publisher(s) listed in this item record unless relinquished in whole or part by a rights notation or a Creative Commons License present in this item record.
Review Type
Abstract Review Only: Reviewed by Event Host
Acquisition
Proxy-submission
Interprofessional Collaboration Through Leadership Initiatives: Eco-Friendly Cost Effective Strategy
Seattle, Washington, USA
Background/Introduction: The world is increasingly adopting environmentally friendly practices to combat ecological degradation caused by single-use products. While these items offer convenience, their widespread use contributes significantly to waste generation. To address this issue, we identified the introduction of recycled tissues as a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Methodology: A multidisciplinary team was formed, including representatives from the Department of Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology (DIPHE), the Office of Environment and Sustainability, and the Purchase and Supply Chain Management Division (PSCMD). We conducted a pre-and post-analysis to identify necessary changes, supported by a literature review to ensure patient and staff safety with the introduction of recycled paper tissues. Experts in microbiology, infectious disease, and infection control reviewed the proposed solution against international best practice guidelines, focusing on the recycling process and its effectiveness in eliminating microorganisms. Microbiological and laboratory tests were performed, and updates from manufacturers were requested. After thorough expert reviews, procurement was approved by the Environment and Sustainability office. The PSCMD team presented multiple tissue products to DIPHE, ultimately selecting a pro-recycled tissue known for its quick-drying and non-sticky properties.
Results: The initiative yielded significant cost savings alongside environmental benefits. A comparison of pre-and post-consumption data from October 2023 to March 2024 with the following six months showed that introducing pro-recycled tissue products saved Rs. PKR 7,233,368, representing a 15% reduction in costs compared to previous products. Importantly, the quality and quantity of tissue usage remained consistent, with no pilferage observed, further reducing costs. These tissues, made from recycled paper and cardboard, maintain the same user experience and are projected to save around 6,000 trees annually.
Conclusion: Our transition to eco-friendly products reflects a strong commitment to sustainability in healthcare. We plan to explore additional innovative options while continuously evaluating these changes to ensure environmental safety and patient well-being. The successful replacement of traditional tissue and toilet paper with recycled alternatives, approved by Infection Control, demonstrates this commitment.
Description
A multidisciplinary team conducted a thorough analysis and engaged experts to ensure safety and efficacy. The implementation resulted in cost savings of Rs. PKR 7,233,368, a 15% reduction compared to traditional tissues, while maintaining quality. This shift promotes environmental sustainability and demonstrates commitment to patient and staff well-being, showcasing the benefits of eco-friendly practices in healthcare settings. These maintained projection equal to around 6,000 trees annually.