Circular Economy And Ethical Waste Management At Amrita Hospital

Abstract

The Circular Economy (“CE”) is a business concept that aims to create linkages between economic activity and the environment, dispelling the notion of an inherent conflict between economic activity on the one hand, and the environment on the other hand. CE envisages a circular flow that recognizes the value in products, materials, and resources, and aims to use them resourcefully. It replaces the traditional linear pattern of unsustainable production, consumption, and disposal, with the aim of extending the life of materials. It encourages modern and innovative economic activity that conserve resources and reduce wastage.

There are infinite possibilities for circular business models and activities; this paper highlights the circular business model for integrated waste management at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (“Amrita Hospital”) in south India. Amrita Hospital’s circular business model is an innovative, ethical way to treat with biomedical waste and other waste generated at the hospital. Though the case study, the CE is shown to be grounded in environmental ethics as well as business ethics.