BECOME participates in Circular Healthcare Knowledge Session at UMC Utrecht

On 13 November, Anton Van Der Lugt (projectleader of BECOME) attended an inspiring interactive session at UMC Utrecht, organised in collaboration with Circulair Utrecht. As part of the BECOME (Boosting Circular Economy Expertise through Learning Communities) project, we are committed to strengthening green skills and sharing knowledge across sectors and this session offered valuable insights into circular practices within healthcare.

During the session, participants were given a behind-the-scenes look at the hospital’s circular strategy and ongoing initiatives. Did you know that UMC Utrecht produces around 2 million kg of waste each year, of which more than 50% is already recycled? The session highlighted both the challenges and the significant progress being made, including practical measures such as reducing unnecessary protective materials in clinical areas.

The afternoon program included:

• An overview of UMC Utrecht’s circular strategies and ambitions
• A tour behind the scenes of the waste processing station
• Collaborative work on a practical circular healthcare case

It was a valuable opportunity to explore what healthcare can learn from entrepreneurs outside the sector and what those entrepreneurs can learn from circular innovation in healthcare.

Thank you to UMC Utrecht and Circulair Utrecht for hosting this inspiring session. We look forward to bringing these insights into the BECOME project and continuing to foster collaboration, training, and knowledge-sharing in the circular economy.