Japan’s healthcare landscape grapples with the challenge of diabetes, prompting a surge in the use of insulin pens, renowned for their precision, portability, and user-friendly design. While insulin pens minimize biomedical waste, environmental concerns linger. As Japan’s insulin pens market gears for a 3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) till 2033, the imperative for sustainable healthcare practices becomes evident, urging stakeholders to address disposal challenges for a greener healthcare future, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s report, “Insulin Pens Market Size by Segments, Share, Regulatory, Reimbursement, and Forecast to 2033,” reveals that Japan held a substantial 28% market share for insulin pens in 2023 in the APAC region.

Aditi Dakshesh Parikh, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Patients choose insulin pens not only for their convenience and ease of use but also for their ability to minimize biological/sharps waste, requiring specialized disposal methods. However, the environmental impact of disposing single-use injection pens in Japan raises notable environmental concerns.

“Addressing these challenges goes beyond mere waste management; it signifies a critical imperative to champion environmental sustainability within the healthcare sector. Implementing effective strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of these disposal methods is essential not only for preserving natural resources but also for fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for all.”

In addition to complexities dealing with biological and sharps waste, around 77% of insulin pens in Japan are made of plastic, adding to environmental concerns. Municipal governments or healthcare facilities often manage their disposal, typically through landfilling or cremation.

Acknowledging the environmental impact, Toho Holdings Co Ltd has embarked on a recycling initiative for old pre-filled injection pens. Novo Nordisk leads this effort with the pilot program “New Life for Used Medical Device (ReMed),” prioritizing sustainable healthcare practices and environmental stewardship in Japan.

Parikh concludes: “The convergence of healthcare needs, environmental concerns, and technological advancements underscores the importance of adopting sustainable practices in diabetes management. By embracing initiatives such as the ReMed project, stakeholders can not only enhance patient care but also contribute to a healthier and more environmentally conscious future.”