Sustainable breathing. Medigas: innovation in respiratory circuits
The ‘Respiro Sostenibile’ (Sustainable Breathing) project represents a significant innovation in the healthcare sector, combining clinical efficiency and environmental sustainability. The initiative involves replacing traditional single-use PVC breathing circuits with polypropylene (PP) solutions, a lighter, recyclable material with a lower environmental impact.
Targets achieved
-50%
lighter weight than PE and PP circuits compared to PVC equivalents, ensuring greater comfort of use
33,9 tCO2/ anno
Reduction in emissions from 63.6 tonnes to 29.7 tonnes
ESG strategy
- Environmental: replacing PVC with PP significantly reduces polluting emissions and simplifies end-of-life management thanks to the new material's greater recyclability. In fact, thanks to the use of PP, CO2 emissions are reduced by 33.9 tonnes per year, from 63.6 tonnes to 29.7 tonnes (source: DEFRA database, UK, which calculates the environmental impact throughout the entire life cycle of materials);
- Social: the use of more sustainable materials promotes a responsible approach in the healthcare sector, responding to the growing demand for devices with a low environmental impact;
- Governance: the adoption of innovative solutions and the optimisation of the supply chain represent a step forward towards more responsible and transparent management of the production cycle.
Project development process
The project was implemented following a rigorous process divided into several operational phases:
- material selection: identification of PP as a sustainable alternative to PVC through an in-depth analysis conducted in collaboration with the manufacturer;
- comparative analysis: evaluation of the clinical performance and environmental impact of the two materials to ensure the most effective and sustainable choice.
- conformity testing: verification of the new product's compliance with health regulations, certification requirements and conformity marks;
- internal validation: testing conducted by Mechanical Ventilation Product Specialists to ensure the effectiveness of the device;
- field validation: involvement of healthcare personnel to test the breathing circuits in hospital and home environments, evaluating their performance in real conditions.
Through the “Respiro Sostenibile” project, SIAD demonstrates how technological innovation and environmental responsibility can coexist, generating concrete benefits for both the healthcare sector and the environment.