How to Recycle FreeStyle Libre Sensor & Applicator

Two options to recycle FreeStyle Libre applicator kit: DYI solution and sensor take back program. I discuss both in this video.

0:00 What should I do with FreeStyle Libre sensor kit after application
0:13 How much waste comes from FreeStyle Libre applicators
0:58 DYI solution for recycling of FreeStyle Libre sensor and applicator
3:00 Abbott's sensor kit take back program
4:30 Future of FreeStyle Libre recycling

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I regularly release videos covering diabetes topics. Let me know if you have any questions or topics you would like me to cover. I really appreciate your input!

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and my videos are not medical advice. My videos reflect my personal experience. What works for me might not work for others. Please consult your medical professional regarding your diabetes treatment. I am not affiliated with Abbott and the DYI approach discussed in this was not consulted with Abbott. I just use and love their products. Links in the video description might include affiliate links (I will receive a small provision if you use these links for your purchase).

#typeonetalks

[boatman]

As someone horrified by the lack of plastic waste reclamation here in the USA I've been growing more and more worried about burgeoning plastic waste. So thanks for letting us know about this Abbott program. I ordered my first kit today.

[u]

I love how much information you cover in each video. You have the mind of an engineer.

[alliemay]

It’s great to hear that Abbott is taking responsibility for disposal of the sensors and applicators. I can’t wait until we (eventually) get the libre 3 in my country because it’s less material from the start. As a diabetic I feel like I create a lot of waste, I’ll have to try the pull apart and recycle method for now

[justjane]

Thank you so much for your clear and understandable videos! I have to watch this one every two weeks when we change my husband’s sensor as we’re old and forgetful 😂
Despise plastic waste!! 🇨🇦

[californiacobra]

Just wanted to thank you for providing the link to Abbott's waste-to-energy pilot program their sharps/CGM waste disposal service! I just got my first 6 week supply of Freestyle Libre 2 CGM sensor supplies and wanted to be sure of the best way to dispose of these items because I don't want to add to the already enormous amount of plastic waste that is in our landfills. Recycling is important to me, so I try to recycle as much of my waste as I possibly can! Thanks again for linking Abbot's free sharps waste bag!

[podbay]

Hello, Tom. Just discovered this. Your video is golden, a gem, thank you so much for making it. I was able to take apart 11 sensors, and will recycle all part of each except the spring and needle. Great work, your video was extremely helpful!

[adultingcreating]

Ive been working at getting the inner most bit out so I can use it as a container for craft items etc. It is nice and sturdy. Slow work with pliers and breaking bits out. Next I shall try my dremel.

[gill]

This was so helpful. Your channel has been a great help & support since my child's T1D diagnosis last year.
I've just recycled 6 sensors & applicators. I now have space on my kitchen worktop back and less guilt about waste. You have also saved me lots of time (I didn't realize the large part of the applicator was purely plastic...it's impossible to dismantle). Stay well. Thanks again

[thecrabpulsar]

This is superb info. I threw the sensors away just a few days ago wondering how to reuse/recycle so much plastic waste from the sensor device.

[mikeclark]

Glad I came upon this. Answered my questions and more. Only I would like to point out that the 10 applicators filling the bottom of your box would be 20 weeks worth, not 10. Thanks for a very informative video.

[ljkforu]

Abbott sent me the bag right away. You got me started on Libre 2. All of my waste is in the Abbott bag. Thank you 😊

[shehnazshiraz]

Thanks for the recycling tips Tom. Great initiative by Abbott to recycle.. Hope it takes off worldwide ASAP!

[sddRd]

I’m actually type 2 but I’m subscribed because I appreciate your video

[prompterbob]

Love watching your videos and learning so much. It was great to learn about the Abbott recycling program. I just ordered my free kit. FYI I’m T2 non insulin, just Metformin. I’ve been using the Libre 14 day for over 2 years, out of pocket. But my endocrinologist just managed to have me get the Libre 2 via Medicare for free. I’m looking forward to trying it next week when my current 14 day expires. Thanks for your great work and inspiration.

[Rainehunkin]

Why don't they add this bag with every box of sensor kits? 🤦‍♀️ anyhow, thank you for the info. Will be ordering my recycling bag today. ❤🌎✌

[boatman]

Speaking of sensor kits I have a terrible time unscrewing the plastic cap before applying the sensor. There are apparently little plastic tabs that have to be broken by twisting before the cap will unscrew and I find them very difficult to break. I have really bad arthritis in both hands so that may be a factor but I have a hunch that many older people (particularly women) may have the same problem. I wish Abbott would modify the cap so as to require less twisting force.

[Dormices]

Thanks for this info, Tom. I have long wondered how to recycle it all.

[ylanda]

Great video. Thank you. I’m bothered that their program only Allows you to get one bag. I’ve used Libre since Jan 2019 and kept every single one application kit because the idea of all of that waste bothered me. I could never find the solution. I’m moving and need to do something and found this video. I don’t have time to do the DIY since I’m preparing to move so the 2nd solution would work perfectly for me. I’m going
to call them this week, explain how many I have and see if they’ll send me more. From my calculations I’ll need about 11 bags.

[colewilliams]

If they REALLY care about not wasting materials, not to mention lower the cost to the consumer for the sensor kit, they need to make an applicator that we can reuse, instead of needed a new one each time we need a new sensor!

[marypatkotak]

Thank you so much for the link. I have so many saved up and I can't wait to recycle these!