Biomedical Waste Management in COVID-19 Pandemic

It is important to note that the COVID-19 epidemic has resulted in a significant increase in the amount of biomedical waste generated, with three to four times more waste being produced compared to pre-pandemic levels. Several factors contribute to the amount of medical waste generated, including the management process, type of medical facility, and the percentage of patients receiving treatment. The management of medical waste can be challenging, especially in situations where healthcare facilities are overburdened, and healthcare workers are overwhelmed. If medical-solid waste is not properly classified, collected, managed, and treated, it can pose a significant risk to public health and the environment. To mitigate the harmful effects of biomedical waste, it is essential to raise awareness of the issue and find ways to reduce waste generation. Furthermore, the use of reusable materials that are safe for the environment is strongly encouraged, as this can help limit the impact of biomedical waste on public health and the environment. These efforts are crucial in protecting public health and the environment, both during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. © 2024 selection and editorial matter, Sunita Varjani, Izharul Haq, Ashok Pandey, Vijai Kumar Gupta, Xuan‑Thanh Bui individual chapters, the contributors.