Abstract
<jats:p>Waste generated in medical facilities poses chemical, toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and radiation risks to the human body, alongside the risks of injury and infection. The microbial load in medical waste is one thousand times higher than in municipal solid waste. Rational and safe management of medical waste is one of the most pressing challenges in healthcare, as it directly impacts infection control and public health protection. An increasing number of countries worldwide are legislating medical waste management. By 2035, the volume of medical waste in Ukraine is expected to reach 141,000 tons, including 35,000 tons of epidemiologically infectious waste. Therefore, it is critically important to ensure sufficient capacities for its safe treatment. An analysis of the regulatory framework allows for the identification of existing differences in the medical waste management systems of Ukraine and the EU member states, as leading European countries have already established frameworks that Ukraine has only recently begun to implement. This review provides a comparative analysis of the regulatory framework for medical waste management in Ukraine and the European Union countries, while substantiating priority measures for reforming the national management system in accordance with European epidemiological safety practices. Based on theoretical, analytical, and comparative methods, the paper reviews current scientific publications and examines relevant regulatory and legal documents of Ukraine, the European Union, and individual member states in the field of medical waste management. The current state of medical waste management in Ukraine and the European Union, as well as the hazardous potential of this waste type for public health, was considered. The review assesses the legislative regulation of medical waste management in EU countries and the regulatory documents of Ukraine. It was established that the current state of legal support for waste management in Ukraine is hindered by a lack of efficient control and supervision over waste management entities and insufficient funding for relevant programs. The expediency of introducing amendments to the regulatory framework has been substantiated, particularly regarding the strengthening of state control over the activities of business entities and the implementation of European waste accounting standards. As a modern state governed by the rule of law, Ukraine has prioritized the development of medical waste management by aligning its legislation with the experience of EU member states. Given that the volume of hazardous waste continues to increase while comprehensive statistical records remain absent, the application of European law and best practices will facilitate the successful implementation of medical waste management programs. To achieve full alignment with EU standards, Ukraine must not only adopt relevant laws but also ensure their effective enforcement, develop modern infrastructure, and strengthen control in the field of medical waste management. The ultimate goal should be the creation of a comprehensive and sustainable management system that meets the best international practices and ensures the protection of human health and the environment.</jats:p>