Quantifying Environmental Waste From Diabetes Devices in the U.S.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE Diabetes devices, including continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps, may significantly affect environmental sustainability and long-term resilience. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This observational study enrolled 49 adults with diabetes using CGMs, insulin pumps, or multiple daily injections (MDIs; three or more per day). Participants completed daily surveys detailing the types and amounts of diabetes-related waste discarded. RESULTS Of the 49 participants, 11 used MDIs and 38 used insulin pumps. Most were female (63%), were White (80%), had a bachelor’s degree (90%), lived in suburban/urban areas (86%), and were aged <65 years (78%). Average monthly waste was 2.7 lbs for pumps and 3.1 lbs for MDIs. Diabetes-related products contributed nearly 2% of household waste. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of improving recycling methods and reducing waste from diabetes devices.