This website is under continuing development. We welcome your feedback.

EPR Reference Database

Publication type: Academic Journal Article

Sustainable Solutions for Eye Drop Plastic Waste: Challenges, Innovations, and Environmental Impact

Abstract/summary

The widespread use of single-use plastic eye drop bottles in ophthalmology presents a significant environmental challenge. While essential for preventing contamination and ensuring patient safety, these bottles contribute to plastic waste due to their small size, multimaterial composition, and inadequate recycling infrastructure. This review examines the environmental impact of eye drop packaging across various ophthalmic conditions, including dry eye disease, cataract surgery, and glaucoma, highlighting the substantial cumulative burden of plastic waste and carbon emissions. The manuscript explores innovative solutions to mitigate this environmental footprint without compromising clinical standards. Key strategies discussed include product redesign using biodegradable materials, the adoption of multidose preservative-free systems, and the development of alternative drug delivery technologies like punctal plugs. Additionally, the importance of advanced recycling initiatives, such as specialized take-back programs, is emphasized. The paper also underscores the need for behavioral, institutional, and policy interventions, including educational campaigns, sustainable procurement practices, and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies. By integrating these multifaceted approaches, the field of ophthalmology can align the critical priorities of patient safety and environmental sustainability, fostering a transition towards greener practices while maintaining high standards of care.

Read more
Author(s)
Siddharth Gandhi
Michael Balas
Amandeep Rai
Journal
Journal of Ophthalmology
Year
2025
Volume and issue
2025, 1
Pages
7375211
DOI
10.1155/joph/7375211
URL
https://doi.org/10.1155/joph/7375211
For explanation of this display of publication information (metadata), see here.

This website provides reference information on reports, articles, and other publications related to EPR. Where possible, links to the original source are provided. Copies of the actual publications are not maintained in the reference database because the publications may be copyrighted or otherwise protected by the publishing source or author. Follow the link to the original document and/or contact the publisher/author for more information.