Class Sustainability in Biomedicine

The Sustainability in Biomedicine course aims to raise awareness and empower students to integrate sustainable practices into the development and application of biomedical technologies. The course addresses the environmental, social, and ethical impact of healthcare solutions, promoting a conscious and responsible approach in the biomedical field.

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1. Introduction to Sustainability in Biomedicine Fundamental concepts The importance of sustainability in laboratories and hospitals Environmental Impacts of Medical Practices Biomedical waste generation Life cycle of biomedical products – from production to disposal Sustainable Management of Biomedical Waste Waste management practices: reduction, reuse, and recycling Innovations in waste management and minimizing environmental impact Sustainable Practices in Laboratories and Hospitals Best sustainability practices in laboratory and hospital settings Replacement of disposable materials and reduction of plastic usage Innovations and Sustainable Technologies in Biomedicine Green biotechnology – use of bioprocesses to reduce pollutants New sustainable materials for biomedical equipment Bioethics and Sustainability Bioethics and environmental responsibility in biomedical research Reflection on the role of healthcare professionals in promoting sustainability

The teaching methodology of the course is based on theoretical lectures, consisting of expository sessions using PowerPoint slides to cover all the course content and promote active discussion and idea exchange between students and instructors. Assessment can be either continuous or non-continuous. Continuous assessment consists of two mid-term tests (each contributing 30% to the final grade), covering the entire course content, and a practical project (worth 40% of the final grade), where students propose the implementation of more sustainable solutions for specific cases in biomedical laboratories and hospitals. A minimum passing grade of 9.5 out of 20 is required. Alternatively, students may opt for non-continuous assessment, which consists of a final exam, where a minimum score of 9.5 is also required to pass the course.  

Wuhle, M. (2023) Making sustainability measurable (a practical book for sustainable living and working). Springer. ISBN: 9783662667149 Robertson (2021) Sustainability – principles and practice. Taylor and Francis. ISBN: 9780367365219 Schroeder K., Thompson, T., Frith, K., Pencheon, D. (2013) Sustainable healthcare. Wiley Blackwell. ISBN: 9780470656716