Opportunities and challenges of implementing circular economy in the medical device sector in Germany

Abstract

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals emphasize the need for a transition towards a circular economy. In line with these global objectives, the European Union has introduced regulatory frameworks such as the Circular Economy Action Plan to promote resource efficiency and waste reduction across industries. This includes the medical device sector, where circularity efforts must be balanced with strict safety requirements for patients and staff. This study explores the specific barriers and incentives influencing the adoption of circular economy strategies within the German medical device industry. Qualitative, semi-standardized interviews were conducted with nine stakeholders – manufacturers and professional users of medical devices – who evaluated various circularity approaches in the medical device sector. From their assessments, barriers and opportunities were extracted. The findings indicate that besides challenges such as regulatory requirements and high costs, many small inconveniences may also influence the decision against existing circular products, many of which can be summarized as low ease of use. In this study, the potential of circularity approaches aiming for separation and recycling of single-use waste seems higher than those involving reusable products. The greatest opportunity to promote circular economy lies in cross-sector collaboration and exchange that may result in material innovation or economic incentives.