Understanding the Barriers to the Integration of Biodegradable Plastics into Healthcare Systems: A Scoping Review Protocol

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Introduction Given its substantially higher-than-average per capita plastic waste and the severe global environmental impacts associated with it, Ireland urgently needs alternatives and effective solutions within its heavily plastic-reliant health sector. Objective Within this protocol, a scoping review to identify key barriers to the widespread integration of biodegradable plastics into healthcare is outlined. Methods This will be achieved by mapping and synthesising existing literature and the current research landscape regarding the application of these biodegradable plastic materials. The principal objective of this review is to systematically identify barriers, such as the availability of waste disposal facilities, infection control considerations, sterilisation methods, cost, staff and management perspectives, knowledge levels and expertise, as well as other policy frameworks and regulations. This review will be guided by the Arksey and O’Malley methodological frameworks and also report recommendations of Peters et al. This review’s findings are expected to form a foundational knowledge base for health systems, researchers and policymakers. Conclusion The obtained evidence will inform the development of robust implementation and research strategies, which will be essential for incorporating biodegradable plastics into healthcare successfully. In turn, this will advance global targets for sustainability, including those relevant to a national context such as Ireland.

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