In June of this year, Eakin Healthcare joined the RPM Program as a fully engaged member.
This announcement coincided with Earth Overshoot Day July 24th, a global reminder of the urgent need to live within the planet’s ecological limits. Eakin Healthcare’s engagement in the RPM Program reflects its broader mission to deliver high-quality healthcare solutions while safeguarding the environment.
The RPM Program is a globally recognised initiative that supports organisations in managing plastic use responsibly, promoting circular economy principles, and driving innovation in sustainable materials and practices.
Daniel Egerton, Sustainability Manager at Eakin Healthcare, commented: “Signing the RPM Charter is more than a statement of intent, it’s a clear commitment to action. At Eakin Healthcare, we recognise how our decisions impact the sustainability of our medical devices & amp; those who use them. By embedding a mindset of Responsible Plastic Management within our product development & amp; operations, we’re not only protecting the planet but also helping deliver world-class healthcare outcomes which can be sustained long into the future.”
Aaron Marshall, Engagement Director at RPM, added “We’re delighted to welcome Eakin Healthcare to the RPM Programme. Their commitment to responsible plastic management demonstrates real leadership in the healthcare sector. By taking proactive steps to reduce plastic waste and embrace sustainable practices, they are setting a strong example for others to follow.”
A comprehensive plan of action has been developed in collaboration with RPM which will be rolled out over the coming months:
• Raising organisational awareness of the need to focus on plastic reduction and responsible management of plastics throughout the value chain
• Reducing single-use plastics across its product lines and packaging
• Enhancing recycling and reuse initiatives within its facilities
• Collaborating with suppliers, contractors and partners to drive sustainable innovation
• Reporting transparently on progress and impact
Eakin aims to enhance their understanding of materials used in products and packaging components from a sustainability perspective to guide future decisions. . One of the challenges in identifying solutions and practices for sustainable resource use and circularity is the collection assembly, and interpretation of data. This is particularly relevant for materials, components, and packaging used in complex manufacturing processes.
For instance, considering alternatives to single-use plastic (SUP) packaging. RPM will support with data collection, review and interpretation frameworks to place plastic in context and support sustainable decision making such as alternatives to SUP, segregation for improved recycling and working with suppliers on circular design and feedstock alternatives such as bioplastics.
RPM will provide further updates of progress and we look forward to seeing fantastic positive outcomes for responsible plastic management in our engagement with Eakin Healthcare.