Using gloves wisely: rethinking glove use for health, safety, and environmental sustainability
Abstract
Non-sterile gloves (NSG) are essential for reducing transmission of pathogens and for protecting patients and staff. Their overconsumption can lead not only to an increased risk of cross-contamination but also increased plastic waste and downstream environmental effects. Glove reduction campaigns worldwide have safely and successfully reduced their inappropriate use and associated waste. In this multidisciplinary commentary, we discuss the sweeping public health and environmental consequences of NSG overuse and strategies to implement a successful glove stewardship campaign.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Infection Control in Healthcare
Healthcare and Environmental Waste Management
Antimicrobial agents and applications
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology
- Publisher
- Cambridge University Press (CUP)
- Volume
- 6
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e88–e88
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN