MUMC+

Explore the feasibility of replacing single-use surgical and isolation gowns at MUMC+ with reusable alternatives, ensuring sustainability without compromising hygiene and safety, while analyzing the logistics, costs, and long-term benefits of implementing reusable linens in healthcare operations.

The Project

The Project

At MUMC+, many items like surgical gowns and isolation gowns are currently single-use, which contributes significantly to waste. It’s a shame, especially when we consider the environmental impact. Our project aims to explore whether these disposable materials can be replaced with reusable alternatives, without compromising hygiene and safety during surgeries.

The project aims to explore reusable alternatives for disposable PPE and covering materials, such as surgical gowns and cellulose mats. In addition to infection prevention and logistics, we will also evaluate the total cost of ownership, considering not only the initial investment but also long-term savings through reduced waste and laundering costs. A critical analysis of various suppliers, including laundry service providers like Nedlin and Cleanlease, and other market players, will be conducted to assess their offerings. This will ensure that we select partners who align with the hospital’s sustainability goals and offer cost-effective, scalable solutions.

Implementing reusable linen is vital for reducing raw material consumption and the carbon footprint of disposable products, while also aligning with the Green Deal’s sustainability goals. This project will have a broad impact on hospital processes, requiring careful integration into current workflows, including infection control and logistics. We must consider the total cost of ownership, from initial investment to long-term savings on waste reduction and laundering. Successfully implementing this shift will also involve evaluating existing contracts and ensuring seamless adaptation to reusable alternatives without disrupting essential healthcare services. Raising awareness about sustainable practices is another key outcome.

The outcomes of this project will be integrated into hospital operations to increase the use of reusable linen. Strategies will be developed to influence behavior positively, ensuring proper usage and handling of reusable items to maximize their lifecycle and benefits. This includes close monitoring of the implementation process within existing workflows, addressing infection prevention and logistical challenges. Education and awareness campaigns will be essential components to foster a culture of sustainability among hospital staff and patients. Additionally, partnerships with suppliers and laundry services will be optimized to ensure cost-effective, scalable solutions that align with sustainability goals.

Together, we’ll explore how healthcare operations can run efficiently with clean, reusable attire—ultimately benefiting both the hospital and the environment.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a greener future in healthcare while gaining valuable experience in sustainability, healthcare management, and innovation

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To the client's website

Research-oriented

In this project, the focus is on “discovering something new”

The Client

The Client

MUMC+ is a leading medical center that integrates health care services with innovative research and teaching. The Facility Service Department (Facilitair Bedrijf) within MUMC+ focuses on providing essential services and infrastructure that support the core medical functions of the center. Our services ensure a safe, clean, and efficient environment, catering to the needs of patients, staff, and visitors alike.

Our project aligns with the Green Deal pillar of circularity, aiming to minimize waste and promote the reuse of resources within the healthcare sector. Specifically, we focus on reducing environmental impact by implementing sustainable practices in the use of medical linen, such as surgical gowns and bed covers, which traditionally generate significant amounts of waste.

Formal Client

This client provides an assignment and perceives the team of students as consultants doing a job for them. The formal client provides guidance and supports the team with feedback, but is not actively involved in project execution.