Developing a new medical or cosmetic product aligned with circular economy and sustainability principles requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are the top 5 considerations that researchers and developers should keep in mind:

1.      Material and Ingredient selection: The first consideration is the selection of materials and ingredients used in the product's design and manufacture. It is essential to choose materials and ingredients that are sustainable, non-toxic, approved for human use and have minimal environmental impact. For example, using recycled or biodegradable materials in packaging and product design can reduce waste and pollution. Additionally, selecting materials that can be reused or recycled after use can reduce the product's environmental impact.

When choosing ingredients in medicine and cosmetic products that align with circular economy and sustainability principles, there are several considerations that researchers and developers should keep in mind. Here are the top considerations:

• Biodegradability: Biodegradable ingredients are essential for circular economy and sustainability. They break down into natural compounds and do not accumulate in the environment. Therefore, choosing ingredients that are biodegradable can reduce the environmental impact of the product.
• Renewable resources: Ingredients from renewable resources can reduce the reliance on non-renewable resources, such as petroleum-based products. Using ingredients sourced from plants, such as natural oils, or from waste streams, such as by-products from the food industry, can minimise the environmental impact of the product.
• Non-toxicity: Toxic ingredients can be harmful to human health and the environment. Choosing non-toxic ingredients can ensure that the product is safe for both consumers and the environment.
• Ethical sourcing: Ethically sourced ingredients from fair-trade suppliers can support local communities and ensure the product is socially responsible.
• Minimal processing: Ingredients that require minimal processing can reduce the energy and resource requirements of the production process. Choosing minimally processed ingredients, such as natural plant extracts, can also provide added health benefits.
• Traceability: Understanding the origin and composition of ingredients is essential for ensuring their sustainability. Ingredients should be traceable, and their sustainability should be verified through certifications, such as organic or sustainable sourcing certifications.

By prioritising these considerations, researchers and developers can choose ingredients that align with circular economy and sustainability principles. Choosing the right ingredients can minimise the product’s environmental impact, improve its safety and efficacy, and support sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

2.      Product design: The product’s design should also be considered to ensure it is circular and sustainable. This can involve using a modular design that allows for easy repair or replacement of components, extending the product's lifespan. Designing products that are easy to disassemble and separating materials that can be recycled or reused can also help with reducing waste and environmental impact.

3.      Manufacturing process: The production process is another critical consideration. Developing production processes that minimise waste and energy use and reduce pollution should be prioritised. A circular economy production system can be implemented by recycling materials, reducing waste, and using renewable energy sources.

4.      Distribution and transportation: The product's distribution and transportation can also significantly impact its environmental impact. Using efficient transportation methods and reducing packaging size can reduce transportation-related emissions. Additionally, utilising local sourcing of materials and production can minimise transportation distances and support local economies.

5.      Disposal: Finally, considering the product's end-of-life disposal is critical. The product should be designed to minimise waste and facilitate reuse, repair, or recycling. Developing a take-back program for products can help to ensure that materials are correctly disposed of and recycled at the end of their lifespan.

In conclusion, developing a new medical or cosmetic product aligned with circular economy and sustainability principles requires consideration of multiple factors, including material selection, product design, production processes, distribution and transportation, and disposal. By prioritising these considerations, researchers and developers can create products that minimise waste, reduce pollution, and positively impact the environment and society.