Page 153 - Towards A Sustainable Future 2024

Table 7: Annual CO2 emissions before and after implementation of eco-solutions at Peacehaven
CO2 emissions Before Eco Solution Eco Solution 2- Use a Eco Solution 3 –
implementation 1- use a big pot big pot and reusable using dishwasher
and use biode- cutleries by hand-
gradable bowls wash
and cutleries
Carbon emission of plastic 37,098.6 kg
Consumption CO2
Carbon emission of water 22.83kgCO2
consumption
Cost of electricity 3,081.5 kgCO2
Carbon emission 37,098.6 kg 35.15 kgCO2 3,104 KgCO2
CO2

Student’s Reflection

Participating in this project was a new and enlightening experience for me. At the outset, I felt
somewhat overwhelmed by the prospect of contributing to environmental sustainability within
the healthcare industry, especially within a nursing home. However, as my team and I embarked
on our clinical attachment at the designated nursing home, we eagerly identified environmental
challenges we could address. My teammates and I observed and investigated potential
environmental issues for our two-week posting. After careful deliberation and numerous
discussions, we decided to focus our efforts on tackling the problem of plastic waste. While
the daily amount of waste may have seemed insignificant to some, we recognised that these
accumulations could translate into significant environmental impact, potentially generating
thousands of kilograms annually over time.

Through extensive research, calculations, and trial-and-error efforts, supplemented by our
Charlene Mayling teacher’s guidance, we ultimately devised a solution centred around using a communal meal pot
Engtay and employing a dishwasher for washing cutlery. This approach addressed the issue of plastic
waste and offered a more environmentally friendly alternative. Overall, this project proved to be
an enriching experience for me. It provided practical insights into calculating carbon emissions
and the intricacies of environmental sustainability and underscored the profound impact that
seemingly small actions can have on our environment. Through our collective efforts, I am proud
to have fostered positive change and contributed to a more sustainable future for healthcare
practices.

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