Group purchasing organization Novation launched a new reusable packaging initiative for U.S. hospitals, hoping to reduce excess packaging and cardboard associated with transporting healthcare products.
The GPO hopes to replace limited-life transport packaging materials, such as cardboard boxes, wood pallets and plastic film, with durable, reusable alternatives.
The advocacy efforts could have a large influence on device makers. Novation represents more than 65,000 members and manages contracts with more than 600 suppliers. In 2011 the GPO was responsible for more than $40 billion in supply contracts.
"We have launched pilot programs with several hospital members we serve, and are optimistic that we will see adoption and success," senior clinical manager of Novation Jennifer Waddell said in prepared remarks. "We firmly believe that efforts to reduce healthcare’s environmental footprint can not only have a direct, positive effect on patient and caregiver safety, but also can help hospitals reduce their overall costs."
Novation is working with several institutions to support this project, including Practice Greenhealth, the Use Reusables campaign, a joint project of public agency StopWaste.org and the Reusable Packaging Assn., as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Showcase Community program, which provides financial support to the project, according to the press release.
The company said the reusable packaging requires an upfront investment, but the long-term savings outweighs initial costs.
The healthcare supply chain company Novation has history of advocating sustainability initiatives, including the support of Practice Greenhealth’s "Greening the Supply Chain" initiative and its "Standardized Environmental Questions for Medical Products" program. Novation has been recognized by Practice Greenhealth’s Champion for Change Award for 9 years in a row, according to the press release.