Flemish Brabant invests in recycling used sterilization cloths from operating rooms

The province of Vlaams-Brabant is investing in the recycling of surgical sterilization cloths used in hospitals. These blue cloths, made of polypropylene, are collected and processed by hospitals in collaboration with social enterprises. The initiative aims to create a circular economy by repurposing the cloths into raw materials, such as for car dashboards. Local partnerships help minimize transport costs by processing the cloths near hospitals. With an investment of €36,000, the province hopes to recycle up to 24 tons of cloths annually by 2027, expanding the initiative to more healthcare institutions in the region.