Falmouth Hospital describes single‑use plastics use; health department to do item‑by‑item review

Christopher Bell, director of food services at Felmouth Hospital, told the Board of Health that the hospital relies on many single‑use plastic items for patient trays, lids, cups and disposable cutlery for infection control and operational reasons, especially in the emergency and acute units.

Bell said some tray types are washable and reused, but disposable bowls, juice cups and lids remain common. He said the hospital will research compliant one‑code plastics and added he has consulted the Rich Earth Institute on pumpout equipment used in other nutrient‑capture projects.

Board members and staff suggested a focused, on‑site meeting with hospital food‑services staff to review specific items and explore reusable alternatives and eligible waivers. The board agreed to arrange a walkthrough with health‑department staff (Morgan or Jane) to identify items where reusable, recyclable or certified alternatives might be feasible.