How is the success of an offensive waste optimisation project measured?

Success is measured by more than just volume – it’s about safe, compliant segregation that delivers environmental and operational value. While the NHS waste split target of 20% high-temperature incineration, 20% alternative treatment, and 60% offensive waste provides a useful national benchmark, it’s not universally applicable.

For example, specialist settings such as oncological outpatient centres may generate higher volumes of cytotoxic waste requiring HTI, making the 20-20-60 split unrealistic.

That’s why Sharpsmart focuses on quality over quantity. There’s no value in increasing offensive waste volumes if the stream is contaminated with pharmaceutical or infectious material. Our Continual Improvement Team works with each facility to:

• Ensure correct segregation at source
• Minimise misclassification and contamination
• Align waste profiles with clinical activity
• Track carbon footprint reduction, which is often the most meaningful measure of success

By tailoring optimisation to your patient population, clinical risk, and operational goals, we help facilities achieve safe, sustainable waste management, whether that means meeting the 20-20-60 target or redefining success through carbon and compliance metrics.