Page 155 - Towards A Sustainable Future 2024

Throughout this sustainability project, I’ve come to appreciate many strategies available
for conserving energy and reducing plastic waste. Our primary focus was on promoting
sustainability within healthcare settings, with our chosen site being a nursing home. During
our time at the nursing home, we witnessed firsthand the extensive use of electrical appliances
and the significant amount of plastic and medical waste generated while providing nursing
care to residents. One particularly glaring issue we observed was using plastic bento sets
during mealtimes, which were disposed of in general waste. This abundance of plastic waste
prompted us to propose using large trays for serving food and reusable cutlery for residents.

However, navigating the complexities of reducing carbon and electrical emissions in a
Carlene Chuy Pei Xin nursing home proved challenging. The facility’s heavy reliance on electricity, plastics, and
water consumption presented formidable obstacles. Despite these challenges, we remained
steadfast in our commitment to finding solution. After witnessing the sheer volume of plastic
waste being discarded into general waste bins by nursing home staff, we became even more
determined to address the issue of plastic waste. Through perseverance and collaboration, we
developed strategies to reduce plastic usage and promote sustainability within the nursing
home environment.

References

Iredale, A. (2023, March 31). Dishwasher vs washing by hand – which uses more water? CHOICE. https://www.choice.com.
au/home-and-living/kitchen/dishwashers/articles/dishwasher-vs-washing-by-hand
The Plastic Waste Problem explained. Alliance To End Plastic Waste. (2021). https://endplasticwaste.org/en/our-stories/the-
plastic-waste-problem-explained

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