Work

Beds we make, futures we shape: A life cycle and cost analysis of reusable and disposable linen in the ICU

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to quantify and compare the environmental impact and cost associated with transitioning from disposable under pads (blueys) and bed protectors (pinkies) to reusable linen products in the intensive care unit (ICU).MethodsA process-based life cycle assessment (LCA) was employed to evaluate carbon emissions and cost across the manufacturing, transportation, laundering, landfill, and disposal stages of disposable versus reusable linen. The analysis compared data from the pre (April 2022 – March 2023) and post-implementation (April 2023 – March 2024) phases of adopting reusable linen in a single centre metropolitan ICU in Melbourne, Australia.ResultsThe introduction of reusable linens to replace single use products resulted in a 50% reduction in total carbon emissions, decreasing from 7,206 kg CO2 equivalent (CO2e) to 3,609 kg CO2e. The intervention avoided approximately 3.6 tonnes of CO2e emissions and 2.2 tonnes of landfill waste, despite a 3% ($1,005) increase in overall costs driven mainly by reusable pinkies. Reusable blueys required more frequent use to achieve CO2e emissions parity with single use variants due to their higher initial carbon footprint, while pinkies reached parity earlier in their lifecycle.ConclusionsThese data underscore the environmental advantages of adopting reusable medical products in healthcare settings, and highlights both environmental impact and financial considerations.Implications for Clinical PracticeThe findings support wider implementation of reusable products in healthcare to advance sustainability goals while maintaining patient care standards. Exploration is required of long-term trends when reusables are introduced, and studies in other socioeconomic settings, on the overall financial and environmental outcomes.

Source: Intensive and Critical Care Nursing

DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2025.104290