WORM project issues guidelines for sustainable waste management in humanitarian response

Field hospitals play a critical role in crisis response, but they also generate complex waste streams. Up to 15% of their waste is hazardous, and current practices such as unregulated incineration and inappropriate disposal of fossil fuel-based materials can harm both public health and the environment. 

The WORM project has outlined standard operational procedures that aim to bring sustainability and circular economy principles into humanitarian logistics.

“Our goal was to make waste management a core operational function in the humanitarian supply chain, not just an afterthought,” says Virva Tuomala, postdoctoral researcher at Hanken School of Economics. “These procedures give practical tools for reducing waste through reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal while also being transparent and safe.”

Two key frameworks for standard operational procedures

The standard operational procedures cover two critical areas. On the one hand, they focus on guidelines for using products efficiently, making equipment last longer, and setting up systems for recycling and repair during deployment. On the other hand, there is also a need for clear steps to make sure sustainable waste practices continue when field hospitals are handed over to local partners.

“Field hospitals are often donated after deployment, so it’s crucial that the principles of sustainability don’t stop there,” Tuomala explains. “We want the handover process to make sure responsibilities for waste management are clear and that local partners can keep following these standards.”

To make this possible, there is a need for clear documentation, awareness campaigns to engage locals, and checks to ensure donated equipment can be repaired.

Circular humanitarian response can be cost effective

WORM also devised procurement guidelines that recommend sustainable materials like bio-based and recyclable options. They also focus on repair and forming local partnerships that can assist in making equipment last longer. Before machinery or any other assets are sent over, it has to be clear that it also can be repaired locally. The standard operating procedures build on these guidelines. 

“It’s important to involve the local community and create opportunities for recycling and repair training. Building skills and enhancing competencies both among local partners and other NGOs is very beneficial,” Tuomala notes.

Higher costs are often given as an argument against circular and low-carbon humanitarian response. However, according to Tuomala it doesn’t have to be more expensive in the long run. 

“Initially there might be higher costs, but if sustainability is integrated right from the start of the project, it will eventually benefit both the environment and operational efficiency,” Tuomala summarises.

The WORM project’s standard operational procedures will be available for use in cross-sectoral trainings and applied in field operations, for example by WORM partner International Medical Corps.

More information about the project:   
WORM – Waste in Humanitarian Operations: Reduction and Minimisation

Text: Marlene Günsberg
Photo: Private, Kisumu County Referral Hospital, Kenya