#Italy #Milan #Bracco Imaging #Zereau BV #sustainable healthcare

Collaboration for Sustainability in Medical Imaging

Bracco Imaging SpA, a global leader in diagnostic imaging, has partnered with Zereau BV, an innovator in medical water technology, to address the pressing issue of sustainability in medical imaging. Their latest initiative focuses on a research program designed to develop systems that effectively filter contrast media from wastewater—a significant environmental concern in the healthcare sector.

The Water Project: Innovative Solutions for Hospital Wastewater

The newly introduced project titled "The Water Project" aims to create and implement robust urine collection and filtration devices in hospitals' radiology departments. These devices will enable patients to use specialized toilets that will capture and filter contrast media from their urine immediately after use. Once these filters are saturated, they will be collected and processed by third-party partners who will extract valuable raw materials, such as iodine, which would typically be lost in wastewater.

This groundbreaking initiative follows a successful preliminary study that established the effectiveness of a urine filtration solution for iodinated contrast media. The collaboration not only proposes a practical solution but also represents a progressive step towards resource recovery and environmental protection in medical imaging practices.

Premiere Presentation at the European Congress of Radiology

The announcement was made on the inaugural day of the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) in Vienna, where discussions on sustainability in radiology are a focal point this year. Bracco plans to highlight this innovative filtration technology at their exhibition stand (Foyer E, Level 0, ACV) to showcase their commitment to sustainable practices.

Promoting a Circular Economy

By addressing water quality concerns and the recovery of resources, this initiative is set to foster a circular economy model—one that aligns with Bracco's dedication to sustainable healthcare solutions. In light of the mounting pressures to mitigate environmental impacts, the partnership with Zereau stands out. Zereau contributes its considerable expertise in water filtration technology, focusing on innovative sanitary solutions that can effectively lessen the environmental footprint resulting from contrast media usage.

Erik Bruno, Innovation for Sustainability Manager at Bracco Imaging, emphasized the importance of this partnership. He stated, "As a leader in medical imaging, we believe that sustainability and innovation should coexist. We feel a strong responsibility to initiate meaningful changes within our industry by tackling one of the biggest environmental challenges: waste."

Zereau CCO Mattijs Maris also expressed enthusiasm regarding the collaboration. He mentioned, "Our pioneering technology and vision around clean water and the recovery of raw materials in healthcare are now gaining attention and validation with Bracco’s partnership. We are prepared to scale up our contributions, revolutionizing radiology with our water filter systems, and fostering a more sustainable healthcare sector in partnership with Bracco."

About Bracco Imaging

Bracco Imaging has established itself as a pioneering force in diagnostic imaging, providing advanced imaging agents and premier delivery systems that cater to various modalities like X-ray, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, and Ultrasound. Their unyielding commitment to innovation is focused on enhancing patient outcomes and refining diagnostic accuracy.

About Zereau

Zereau specializes in cutting-edge water technology tailored for healthcare institutions, concentrating on sanitary filtration solutions. Their approach curtails specific medical micropollutants from contaminating the environment, opening doors for the circularity of valuable raw materials. Zereau’s innovations cater to sectors including radiology, nuclear medicine, intensive care units (ICUs), hospital pharmacies, and oncology departments.

This collaboration between Bracco Imaging and Zereau is a significant move in the healthcare industry, showcasing how innovative technology can facilitate sustainability while addressing critical environmental concerns. Together, they are paving the way for a future where healthcare and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.