The circular economy in the aesthetics sector

A circular economy implies that the resources used within any process are reused, recycled, and kept in circulation for as long as possible. Within the aesthetics industry, this approach offers a promising pathway to more sustainable practices, moving beyond traditional recycling efforts.

Aesthetic medicine tends to be resource-intensive, relying heavily on single-use items and products with limited lifecycles. The shift towards a circular economy in this sector addresses environmental concerns and aligns with the growing patient demand for sustainable healthcare practices.

Sustainability and waste experts from businesswaste.co.uk have shared some of the best practices to apply key circular economy principles in the aesthetics sector.

1) REFURBISHMENT AND REUSE OF MEDICAL DEVICES

Many devices used in aesthetic treatments, such as lasers and ultrasound machines, have large environmental footprints. Refurbishing and reusing these devices can extend their lifecycle and drastically reduce waste. Reputable suppliers often provide certifications and warranties comparable to new devices. These are crucial in reassuring practitioners and patients alike that the refurbished devices are reliable and effective for aesthetic treatments.

2) BIODEGRADABLE AND REUSABLE CONSUMABLES

Extensive research has found biodegradable alternatives to singleuse non-recyclable products used for aesthetic treatments. For instance, scientists are exploring biodegradable polymers for dermal fillers and sutures that can safely dissolve in the body over time. These materials are designed to be metabolised by the body’s natural processes, leaving no harmful residues and reducing the need for removal procedures.

Biodegradable consumables are engineered to match or surpass the safety and efficacy profiles of their non-biodegradable counterparts. Their use significantly reduces the environmental footprint of aesthetic treatments.

3) DIGITALISATION AND VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS

Another way to minimise the sector’s carbon footprint is through leveraging technology to reduce the need for physical products and travel. Virtual consultations have become more popular than ever before, reducing pollution and creating better efficiencies when it comes to resource allocation, patient records, and digital consent forms. Digitalising most paperwork needed for these procedures is also the best way to cut down on paper waste.

4) SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT PRACTICES

Sustainable procurement practices involve selecting products and services that meet clinical needs, as well as align with environmental and social responsibility goals. This approach considers the entire lifecycle of products, from production and delivery to use and disposal.

One way to implement this is by looking at the supplier’s credentials and processes. Clinics might prioritise purchasing from suppliers who use renewable energy in their manufacturing processes, for example. Another way is by purchasing biodegradable consumables (as mentioned) or different products with recyclable packaging.

Finally, where funding allows, clinics should consider more energy-efficient equipment. Newer models of laser treatment machines might use less power or have a standby mode that reduces energy usage when the device isn’t actively being used.

The shift towards a circular economy in aesthetic medicine isn’t just about reducing waste or recycling more effectively. It’s about rethinking how resources are used, from the procurement of materials to the delivery of services, and ultimately, how waste is handled. By applying even just a few of these principles, aesthetic clinics can play a key role in driving forward a more sustainable and responsible approach to healthcare.