Nanotechnology Solutions for Biomedical Waste Management
摘要
Biomedical waste management has emerged as a critical global concern due to its potential threats to human health and the environment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 15% of healthcare waste is hazardous, including sharps, pharmaceuticals, and infectious materials. Improper disposal can lead to disease transmission, environmental contamination, and long-term ecological harm. With healthcare facilities generating approximately 16 billion tons of biomedical waste annually, traditional methods like incineration and landfilling pose limitations in terms of safety and environmental impact. Nanotechnology offers promising advancements for more efficient and sustainable biomedical waste management. Nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles, nanocapsules, and carbon nanotubes exhibit unique physicochemical properties that enhance sterilization, waste treatment, and pathogen removal. For instance, silver nanoparticles have demonstrated up to 99.9% antimicrobial efficiency, outperforming many conventional methods. Additionally, nano-enabled sensors allow for real-time monitoring of biomedical waste, enabling accurate detection of pathogens and toxic substances. In high-waste-generating countries like India, where over 500 tons of biomedical waste is produced daily, nanotechnology could significantly improve safety, efficiency, and compliance. This chapter explores recent developments in nanotechnology-based biomedical waste solutions, their applications in treatment and monitoring, and challenges related to scalability, regulation, and public acceptance, paving the way for safer and more sustainable healthcare waste practices.