GOSHpods goes Green S4 - Episode 6: Plastics waste in healthcare

About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges and innovations related to plastic waste in healthcare.

In this episode, we dive into the vast and often overwhelming world of plastic waste in healthcare. Nicola Wilson speaks with Rianan Puttnam, Waste Manager at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and Liam Hogg, Head of Waste and Resources for NHS England, to uncover the true scale of the issue and the complexity of the waste streams we rely on every day. Together, they explore how healthcare generates enormous volumes of plastic, the challenges of managing waste safely, and the innovative ways plastic is being repurposed to keep it out of the environment. They also discuss why designing products with their end‑of‑life in mind—not just their use—is essential for creating a more sustainable system. A conversation full of realism, creativity, and hope for a future where healthcare waste is managed smarter, not bigger.

People in this episode

Host: Nicola Wilson

Guests: Rianan Puttnam, Liam Hogg

Topics covered

• plastic waste
• healthcare
• waste management
• sustainability
• innovation
• environment

Keywords

• plastic waste
• healthcare waste
• sustainability
• waste management
• environmental impact

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Great Ormond Street Hospital, NHS England