Air Pollution: A National Emergency
Air pollution is the largest environmental threat to public health in the UK, contributing to:
- 9 out of 10 people around the world breathe air that does not meet WHO’s recommended air quality standards.
- Air pollution kills 7 million people every year.
- Increased risk of respiratory diseases, heart conditions and even dementia
- Vulnerable groups like children and the elderly being disproportionately affected
Top 5 Sources of Air Pollution
Burning Fossil Fuels – Power generation & heating
Industrial Emissions – Manufacturing & incineration
Transportation – Vehicle emissions, especially diesel
Agriculture – Ammonia & methane from livestock/fertilisers
Household Pollution – Wood/biomass burning indoors
Spotlight: Industrial Emissions in UK Healthcare
Clinical waste incineration is a hidden contributor to air pollution. Here’s the reality:
- 156,000 tonnes of clinical waste produced annually in England
- £32 million spent on incineration per year
- Equivalent to 400 jumbo jets worth of waste
- Often burned, releasing toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases
The NHS Net Zero Plan sets ambitious goals:
- 50% reduction in carbon from clinical waste by 2026
- 80% reduction by 2028
- Net Zero direct emissions by 2040, indirect by 2045
But with clinical waste forecast to increase 3% annually, we must act now.
If Incineration Is Inevitable: Choose Wisely
Burning Plastic
- Releases toxic chemicals (dioxins, furans, PCBs)
- Produces greenhouse gases
- Contributes to smog and microplastic pollution
Burning Cardboard
- Less toxic than plastic
- Lower CO2 emissions
- No microplastics
- Compostable or recyclable
That’s why we’re a leading supplier of Nilaqua products – developers of innovative, 100% biodegradable large dry wipes in a plastic-free outer, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp. These wipes are:
- Super thick (50 GSM) and ultra-absorbent, so you use up to 50% fewer per application
- Packaged in biodegradable FSC-certified boxes
- Zero plastic, zero waste, and fully compostable
- Aligned with upcoming UK legislation and NHS sustainability goals
- By choosing biodegradable wood pulp instead of a plastic outer, we’re actively reducing the environmental and health impact before products even reach the incinerator
Bottom line? If you have to burn something, cardboard is far safer than plastic – for humans and the planet.
Did you know? Many products labelled as biodegradable are only around 50% biodegradable, with outer packaging still made from plastic – whereas Nilaqua is completely plastic-free.
Discover Nilaqua’s 100% Biodegradable Large Dry Wipes here.
