Reducing plastic waste in respiratory health

Around 75 million inhalers are prescribed every year in the UK for the treatment of respiratory diseases like asthma, of which 70% are pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) made with single use plastic (polypropylene) 'actuators'. Research shows most used inhalers are disposed of at home, ending up in landfill or low-temperature incineration, despite initiatives to encourage recycling.

We are seeking to fundamentally re-design these life-saving devices so that the use of plastic is minimised or eliminated.

Our vision is to inspire other industry-led initiatives to design out persistent plastic wastes in the healthcare sector through re-imagining how healthcare equipment can be designed for reuse and valued by users. Human-centred design can be used to support a more sustainable NHS, while generating jobs in the UK green economy.