ABSTRACT
Medical waste is a real danger to public health and the environment. The quantity of this waste, mainly from hospitals, is constantly increasing, leading to various forms of pollution, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 is giving us many lessons, among which one must be to realize that this is the time to act for sustainable future. Sustainable medical waste management is a critical parameter for the health, well-being, and development of society. However, health care and water waste management methods can also pose a health and environment risk if the various steps in the management process are not carried out correctly. The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a global emergency and also has raised issues with waste management practices. This review focuses on an analysis of the current practices in medical waste management worldwide, particularly in MENA region, and on a comparative study of the most waste treatment methods of treatment and waste management. Also, the aim of this review is to discuss different research on management practices, waste generation and characterization, disposal practices, and technology widely used for the treatment of medical wastes. Moreover, the medical wastes will be separated into categories and types according to the international literature. The problematic areas of medical waste are addressed by proposing some recommendations that will ensure that potential health and environmental risks of medical waste are minimized.
