European Med Tech Sustainability Center

Healthcare systems in Europe are increasingly recognizing that value in medical devices is not derived solely from clinical outcomes or cost-effectiveness. Regulators, payers, and procurement teams are beginning to consider product’s environmental and social impact. As a result, sustainability performance has become an important emerging factor in market access and procurement decisions shaping how medical device manufacturers design, produce, and deliver their innovations.

A growing number of stakeholders expect manufacturers to provide evidence of responsible resource use, from production through end-of-life disposal. This shift extends beyond regulatory compliance, reflecting a broader commitment to public health, environmental stewardship, and ethical sourcing. Key sustainability topics that influence decision-making in medical device procurement include:

• Waste Reduction: Minimizing packaging and single-use components, designing products for easier recycling or reprocessing;
• Carbon Footprint (CO₂ Emissions): Implementing energy-efficient manufacturing processes, optimizing transportation routes, and measuring total greenhouse gas outputs throughout the supply chain;
• Plastic Usage: Decreasing reliance on virgin plastics, exploring alternative materials, and improving recyclability of plastic components;
• Lifecycle Management: Conducting thorough lifecycle assessments, tracking a device’s environmental impact from raw material extraction to disposal;
• Circular Economy Practices: Emphasizing reuse, remanufacturing, and refurbishment strategies to extend product lifecycles and reduce waste.

By proactively integrating these considerations into product design and operational processes, medical device companies can enhance their value proposition, reduce environmental impact, and meet the increasing sustainability demands that are now integral to market access and procurement frameworks.