Healthcare Hygiene magazine March 2022 March 2022 | Page 21

YOUR MATTERS

CHOICE

Choose Reusable Textiles — Because the Future Is Not Disposable !
Why should you choose reusable textiles ? The math is simple . Just one reusable gown replaces 60 disposable isolation gowns . Plus , when you choose reusable , you use less carbon , less energy , less water , and produce less waste .
For the past decade , the American Reusable Textile Association ( ARTA ), has conducted and published peerreviewed life cycle assessment ( LCA ) research that provides incontrovertible evidence that reusable medical textiles offer dramatic improvements in environmental benefits versus their disposable counterparts . This is an important consideration since the healthcare industry accounts for nearly 5 % of global greenhouse gas emissions .
ARTA has conducted LCAs * on isolation gowns , surgical gowns , incontinence pads , cleanroom coveralls , and later this year , microfiber cleaning cloths and flat mops .
Find out more at www . ARTA1 . com .
The math is simple
60 disposable isolation gowns to one reusable gown .
* The studies , conducted by Environmental Clarity researchers Michael Overcash , PhD ., and Evan Griffi ng , PhD ., compare the environmental impacts — energy and water consumption , global warming potential ( carbon footprint ), and solid waste creation — for reusable and disposable textiles from the origin of the raw materials , through the manufacturing process and transport , use and reuse , to the fi nal disposal .
When you choose reusables , you reduce waste and waste costs . Reusables are the smart and responsible choice !
HOW TO CONNECT
• See ARTA at Clean 2022 in Atlanta July 30 – Aug . 2
• Join ARTA and support future research ( 50 % off for hospital members CODEHH )
• Contact Nancy Jenkins for more information : njenkins @ ARTA1 . com