You can think of a hospital as a small city that never sleeps. Patient care continues 24/7, and this is supported by a complex logistics system involving medications, patient transport, and restaurants. This generates many different types of waste: from organic waste and PMD (plastic, metal and drink cartons) in public areas to medical waste such as needles, contaminated materials, and chemicals. Strict regulations apply specifically to this hazardous waste, making a careful approach especially important. Waste management therefore requires a careful transition without disrupting daily operations. Erasmus MC, one of the largest university medical centers in the Netherlands, switched to Milgro in 2026 and rated the implementation phase an 8.
A smooth transition
During the transition, Milgro chose to retain the existing waste collection partner. The hospital sees clear advantages in this approach. During a previous transition, all containers had to be replaced, which resulted in a lot of work and disruption. This time, only the compactors and some of the PMD containers needed to be replaced. What did change, however, is that the entire operational management of all waste streams now runs through Milgro. Milgro provides Erasmus MC with insight into waste data, ensures compliance with laws and regulations, and handles the administration and invoicing to collectors and processors. In addition, we are working together to reduce waste, increase reuse, and lower costs.
The next step: optimization
The implementation phase was viewed positively, according to Marcel van der Mijde of Erasmus MC. This was due not only to the smooth transition but also to the fact that the right people, both internal and external, were involved in the process from the start. Now that the transition is complete, the next phase begins: optimization. This includes more effective collection methods and smarter transportation, so that Erasmus MC can save on costs and achieve its sustainability goals.
“We found the implementation phase to be a positive experience. That was not only due to the smooth transition, but also because the right people, both internal and external, were involved in the process from the very beginning,” says Marcel van der Mijde, Logistics Coordinator at Erasmus MC.
Want to know what Milgro can do for your organization?
Feel free to contact Daniel Clovin. He’d be happy to help your healthcare organization.
Stay informed
Follow us on LinkedIn. There, we share the latest news on regulations, circular economy topics, and industry developments. Also, subscribe to our newsletter and listen to our podcast “Grondstof tot nadenken” (in Dutch) while taking a walk or on the go. Curious about what Milgro can do for your operations and waste management process? Then get in touch.
