A quick glance at any newspaper’s headlines reveals an ongoing concern for the state of the environment. Some scientists warn that climate change is occurring too rapidly to curb the damage while others encourage dramatic change to keep drastic climate rollercoaster away.

Whatever your views, there is mounting evidence that the worldwide diabetes epidemic is not only harmful for the human population but has the potential to contribute to the issue of global climate change.

Diabetes and the Environment

The way diabetes affects the environment is through an unending stream of waste. Whether you use needles to administer insulin or check your blood sugar using test strips a few times a day, you are creating additional waste compared to the general population. Because these items have blood on them and are considered biohazardous material, they cannot be recycled or reused.

As more people are diagnosed with diabetes, there is an increased amount of waste. Even if you don’t need to check your blood sugar constantly, or you don’t administer insulin with a needle, there are still medication bottles, regular testing materials, and other medical supplies to consider. At least 7.5 billion pieces of medical equipment are used outside of hospitals each year.

What Can Be Done?

While you can’t give up testing your glucose, administering your insulin, or taking your
medication, there are simple steps you can take to minimize your waste.

#1. Keep Diabetes in Check

As much as you possibly can, make good use of your diet and exercise to keep your body in good working order and to minimize the amount of medical equipment and supplies you’ll need. If you keep your sugar balanced, you may not need insulin or copious amounts of medication. If you change some of your lifestyle habits, you may be able to manage your diabetes entirely with dietary restrictions and exercise routines.

#2. Use All Supplies

Do not throw away supplies you haven’t used. If you have a surplus, you can donate your surplus to a shelter or even a friend with diabetes. Keeping unnecessary waste out of receptacles is one of the best ways to contribute to the safety of the environment.

#3. Properly Dispose of Your Waste

Needles and lancets should be disposed of at a qualified waste management facility rather than being thrown into your home trash can and curbside pickup. Medical waste is dangerous both for its sharp points and for its status as a biohazard.

Diabetes and the downfall of the environment are not inextricably linked, but as chronic conditions increase, so does garbage and hazardous waste. Keeping your body in tiptop shape is a powerful way to help the environment stay healthy and strong, as well.