Safety and Sustainability in Medical Devices

The European Union (EU) is promoting the integration of biobased plastics into industrial processes to support the circular economy framework and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biobased plastics have proven to be a low-carbon solution in various industries. This paper examines the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to circular bioplastics for medical devices. The medical sector presents unique challenges, including degradability, leaching, sterilization, biocompatibility, recycling, and incineration of bioplastics. In addition, inconsistencies in LCA methodologies complicate the evaluation process. A network analysis highlights the interconnectedness of these factors, with leaching, degradation, and incineration behaviors emerging as primary influencers. This review proposes a framework for transitioning to a circular plastics economy in medical devices, emphasizing the need to reduce overall plastics demand, explore sustainable end-of-life options, conduct standardized LCAs, and develop suitable bioplastic compounds. Future research directions include developing durable, low-toxicity bioplastics, advancing chemical recycling methods, and expanding comprehensive LCA studies to ensure the safe and sustainable integration of bioplastics into medical devices.