The discussion about sustainability is omnipresent, but if we look at the medical and electrical engineering sector, there still seems to be a lot of catching up to do. The facts are sobering: every year, around 4.8 million tonnes of waste are produced in Germany’s hospitals and the production of one power tool results in around 67 kg of CO2 emissions. These figures directly confront us with the question of responsibility. At B&W Engineering, we see ourselves not only as part of this industry, but as active shapers of a more sustainable future.
The role of product development
At B&W, we integrate sustainability aspects into the product development process from the very beginning. This means that in every project, whether it is explicitly aimed at sustainability or not, we aim to minimise the impact on the environment. We identified three main issues that challenge our customers in terms of sustainability: Complex supply chains, specific production requirements and strict regulations.
Solutions through innovative process design: One key to overcoming these challenges lies in efficient process management. At B&W, we focus on analysing, simplifying and transparently documenting processes. One example is our work on process documentation for the sterilisation of implants. By defining optimal conditions for sterilisation processes, we contribute directly to sustainability by minimising energy consumption and the use of chemicals.
Material technology: paving the way for less waste
Choosing the right materials plays a crucial role, especially when it comes to reducing waste. B&W favours biocompatible and degradable plastics to reduce environmental impact from the outset. Our aim is to support the industry in establishing more effective waste separation and recycling processes, including in the clinical sector.
Regulatory affairs: creativity meets compliance
Compliance with strict regulatory requirements can often be perceived as a stumbling block to innovation. At B&W, however, we see this as an opportunity to develop creative and sustainable solutions that both comply with regulations and minimise environmental impact. One example of this is the development of modular medical devices that can be dismantled to enable differentiated disposal of contaminated components.
It’s a shared responsibility!
The challenges of sustainability in the medical and electrical engineering industry are huge, but not insurmountable. At B&W Engineering, we see ourselves as part of the solution. Through innovative product development, conscious material selection and creative implementation of regulatory requirements, we are making our contribution to a more sustainable future. It’s time to take responsibility together and actively work on solutions that not only make ecological sense, but also economic sense. Let’s take the path to a more sustainable industry together.
