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The Environmental Impact of Nitrile Glove Use in Ontario's Clinical Settings

Writer's picture: Josiah ChungJosiah Chung

 By Jonathan Grant 

When we think about the tools that keep us safe in healthcare settings, nitrile gloves might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But these single-use protective barriers are essential in clinical environments, where they safeguard both patients and healthcare workers from cross-contamination, infection, and harmful pathogens. They’ve been the unsung heroes of healthcare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where their use surged dramatically. However, their indispensability comes with a hidden cost—one that we often overlook. 


The Hidden Cost of Nitrile Gloves: Waste Generation 


Ontario’s healthcare system, like those of other high-income regions, produces substantial amounts of medical waste daily. According to global estimates, hospitals in developed countries generate approximately 0.5 kg of waste per bed every day, with around 15% of this waste classified as hazardous. This category includes used nitrile gloves, which often contain biological contaminants such as bacteria and viruses (CDA-AMC). 

Consider the scale of glove usage: in just one surgical procedure or patient interaction, multiple pairs of gloves may be used by a single healthcare worker. Across Ontario’s hospitals, clinics, and long-term care homes, this adds up to millions of gloves discarded every week. Most of these gloves end up in landfills, contributing to a growing environmental burden that’s difficult to ignore. 

The Carbon Footprint of a Simple Glove 


Nitrile gloves aren’t just a waste problem; they also carry a significant carbon footprint. Each glove, weighing about 3 grams, generates approximately 26 grams of CO₂ emissions across its lifecycle (BJA). This lifecycle includes the extraction of raw materials, energy-intensive manufacturing, global distribution, and eventual disposal. While 26 grams might not sound like much, consider the billions of gloves used worldwide every year. The cumulative impact is staggering. 

Even as manufacturers strive to innovate, the carbon footprint of nitrile gloves remains a challenge. For example, Top Glove, one of the world’s largest glove producers, reports that their conventional nitrile gloves emit 0.0277 kg CO₂ per piece, while their biodegradable options slightly reduce this to 0.0254 kg CO₂ per piece (Top Glove). While these numbers are promising, they highlight the need for broader systemic change to address the environmental cost of essential healthcare supplies. 


Reimagining Waste: A Second Life for Nitrile Gloves 


At Second Sole, we’re taking on this challenge by turning single-use nitrile gloves into something new and impactful: durable rubber shoe soles. This initiative isn’t just about recycling; it’s about creating a circular economy where waste materials are repurposed rather than discarded. 


Our process begins with the collection of used gloves, which are then sterilized and shredded into rubber crumb. This crumb is transformed into high-quality materials that can be used to manufacture eco-friendly footwear. By diverting gloves from landfills and reducing the need for virgin materials, we’re tackling the twin challenges of waste and emissions head-on. 

This isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a cultural shift. We believe that by showing what’s possible, we can inspire industries and individuals to rethink waste and see the potential in materials often deemed worthless. 


Why It Matters 


The environmental cost of nitrile gloves is more than just numbers; it’s a reflection of the delicate balance between human safety and planetary health. Healthcare systems must prioritize the well-being of patients and workers, but they can also take steps toward sustainability by supporting innovative solutions like recycling and repurposing materials. 

By shedding light on the hidden costs of these everyday items, we can start conversations about better waste management practices, more sustainable manufacturing, and the need for systemic change. At Second Sole, we’re proud to be part of this movement, and we invite others to join us in creating a future where even the smallest items—like a glove—can make a big difference. 

For more stories, insights, and updates on our sustainability efforts, visit our blog at Second Sole. Together, we can reimagine waste and build a cleaner, more sustainable world. 


References: 


  • CDA-AMC: Medical Waste in High-Income Countries 

  • BJA: Carbon Footprint of Nitrile Gloves 

  • Top Glove: Life Cycle Assessment 

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