Team Members

• Caroline Guinard — Pathology PGY-3

• Dr. Gillian Bethune — Breast Pathologist

Project Summary
Pathology specimens routinely arrive from operating rooms and clinics in single-use plastic containers that are discarded after one use, contributing substantially to healthcare waste. This project aims to reduce specimen container waste by establishing a protocol to safely de-identify, wash, and reuse select pathology containers within the laboratory. By diverting plastic from landfills and decreasing the need for new container purchases, the team seeks to lower both environmental impact and operational costs. This initiative explores a practical, scalable approach to sustainability within routine pathology workflows.