Paul McCormack Cooney
CE Best Practice & Toolkits Lead, Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR), the secretariat of CIRCULÉIRE
As Ireland pursues Net Zero by 2050, adopting circular practices in the medtech sector could drive innovation, reduce waste and position the sector and country as a global sustainability leader.
Ireland is a global leader in the production of medical technologies. We produce 80% of the world’s stents and 50% of its ventilators, and we are the largest global exporter of contact lenses (Medical Technology Ireland, 2023). The medtech sector is uniquely positioned to contribute to the country’s net zero and circular economy goals.
However, the sector’s reliance on single-use devices, resource-intensive production and global supply chains presents significant challenges. Yet, with challenge comes great opportunity. Transitioning to circularity offers transformative potential for reducing waste, cutting emissions and fostering innovation.
Circular economy medtech guide
Our Circular MedTech Guide showcases actionable strategies for the sector to adopt more circular practices. These include designing reusable products, extending device lifecycles through remanufacturing and recovering valuable materials. Case studies of companies like Stryker and Tympany Medical demonstrate how circular business models can cut waste, save costs and secure resource availability while maintaining stringent safety standards.
Ireland’s transition to a sustainable,
low-carbon economy hinges on
strategic interventions in
key sectors like medtech.
Overcoming barriers and maximising impact
Achieving circularity in medtech requires tackling regulatory complexities, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and incentivising sustainable design. Ireland’s medtech ecosystem can leverage its innovation capacity to pioneer solutions that address these challenges, positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable and circular healthcare.
Circularity is a prerequisite to net zero goals
By embracing the principles of circularity, Ireland’s medtech sector can significantly contribute to national net zero ambitions while enhancing its competitiveness. Policymakers, businesses and innovators must collaborate to create enabling conditions, from clear regulatory pathways to targeted financial incentives.
Ireland’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy hinges on strategic interventions in key sectors like medtech. The path to circularity and net zero is not only achievable but essential for ensuring long-term resilience and global prosperity.
