<br />Today, the world faces increasing challenges in healthcare—not only in terms of providing medical services but also in addressing the environmental impact of medical devices and waste. With the growing use of medical technology, it has become essential to think of innovative solutions that balance human health and environmental preservation. In this context, the concept of smart recycling of medical devices emerges as a strategic option that contributes to building more efficient and sustainable healthcare systems.<br />Environmental Dimension<br />Medical devices, once expired or malfunctioning, may turn into hazardous waste containing heavy metals, plastics, and polluting chemicals. Smart recycling offers an effective solution by recovering rare metals such as platinum and titanium and processing them safely for reuse. This reduces environmental pollution and conserves natural resources.<br />Economic Dimension<br />Instead of bearing the costs of disposing of consumed medical devices, they can be repaired, remanufactured, and reintroduced to the market at lower costs. This process reinforces the concept of the circular economy in the healthcare sector, helps hospitals and medical centers reduce operational expenses, and simultaneously opens new job opportunities in remanufacturing and clean technologies.<br />Health and Social Dimension<br />Improper disposal of medical waste poses a direct risk to community health. However, smart recycling helps reduce these risks and ensures safer environments both inside and outside hospitals. Moreover, providing remanufactured devices at lower prices enhances health equity by making medical technology accessible to a wider segment of people, especially in developing countries.<br />The Role of Technology and Innovation<br />The adoption of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things in monitoring the life cycle of medical devices enables identifying the optimal time for their decommissioning and determining their recyclable components. This makes recycling more precise and improves the quality of recycled products, thereby strengthening trust in this approach.<br />Link to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)<br />By reviewing the content of this article, it is evident that it aligns with several goals of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda:<br />• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being → By reducing the health risks of medical waste and ensuring the availability of safe, reused devices.<br />• Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth → Through the creation of new job opportunities in recycling and maintenance.<br />• Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure → By promoting innovation and technology adoption in managing life cycles.<br />Smart recycling of medical devices is no longer a secondary option but a strategic necessity to achieve a balance between healthcare needs, environmental protection, and economic growth. It is an approach that sets us on the right path toward sustainable healthcare systems capable of meeting present challenges and ensuring a better future for generations to come.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq.<br /><br /><br />