Question reference: S6W-00884
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 18 June 2021
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Current status: Answered by Humza Yousaf on 19 July 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has carried out or plans to carry out of the issue of microplastics originating from hospital laundrettes being found in the ocean.
Answer
The easiest way to mitigate microplastic presence in waste water from laundries is to ensure appropriate lint filters are fitted to washers before the water is discharged into the drain. Most NHS Laundries are using appropriate lint filters already, the remaining are due to be replaced.
In addition, NHS Highland is currently testing water coming into and out of their on-site laundry and will assess the levels of microplastic. Results from the project are expected in late summer 2021 and will be used to identify any necessary remedial work required.