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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.
Big issue is all the different types of plastic. Sometimes the plastic has a molded triangle with a number inside which means what type of plastic it is. Not all of it is a recyclable plastic and it gets sorted out and goes to a landfill. Sad. I use Dexcom and that inserter is enormous. I would like to see Dexcom come up with a program like Abbotts.
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
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!
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.
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!! 🇨🇦
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
I am in the UK, I tried to extend the time but not able to download the app. Could you please give the link. Very useful information. I am going to try Avacado and Tomato salad for breakfast🙏🙏
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!
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.
I used this sensor the first time last year. I'm not a diabetic just used it to identify sugar spiking food in my diet. I was shocked when realised this amount of waste. The sensor is just 10 grams, 70 grams the tool to place the sensor. This type of plastic would not be officially recycled in Ireland. So it is an environmental disaster for hundreds of thousands of years. Good to hear about the Abbot recycle scheme but again, not in Ireland as I feared. Why do you cant use the placing tool for a year or so and just get the sensor replaced? If the needle in this joke stitching your skin why it cant be sterilised after use? Anyway, your channel is helpful, thanks for it.
Hey, man, great channel! How the heck did you find out about the takeback program?? I went on the Freestyle website and searched for "recycle"/"recycling," and ZERO results popped up! I also googled the subject, and your videos were among the top results! 👍 But NO results from the company - I'm pretty peeved that the company doesn't make this info readily available! 😠 Before I saw your video I was seriously considering shipping the plastic pieces back to the company using the address on the sensor box (at my own expense) - along with a snarky letter about the issue. So I'm REALLY glad to have found your video! (from another Seattle area viewer)
I tried ABBOTT's recycle app and I guess that it isn't up and running yet in the USA,I live in Seattle Washington, Thanks anyway I watch all of your shows and they are all very helpful, I am type to.
It wasn't hard to figure this one out, unlike Dexcom, but the recycle program isn't available in Canada. You said maybe in about 6 months but it's almost a year.
I cannot get the grey plastic part you talk about right at the beginning to break. I looked at the video several times and cannot see how to do it. Where do you apply the pressure and in which direction? At this rate it has taken me already 5 minutes and I still haven't managed to remove the part so I must be doing something wrong.
NO take back program in Canada they tell me. Not all plastics are recyclable so while I could go through the steps and put it in my bin it will get sent to a landfill from there. Are you sure yours actually gets recycled?
Indeed. In Calgary, Canada, the city’s website says that hard plastic items that are not containers go to the landfill: “Put miscellaneous plastic items into the black cart as garbage. This includes items like: Plastic toys Laundry baskets DVD cases, CD cases, cassette tape cases Tarps Plastic patio furniture Why can't this be recycled? Plastics that are too large, too small, or odd shapes cannot be processed properly at the recycling facility. Even if they have a recycling symbol 1-7, it cannot be recycled. Only recycle proper plastic containers like jugs, bottles, and tubs.” Does anyone know if Abbott has a recycling/take-back program for Canada yet?
Hi Tom, could you do a video about vision loss associated with t1d? Can it be prevented and how? I read nearly every type 1 diabetic has retinopathy two decades after diagnosis . My son was diagnosed when he was 5 and he would only be 25,
From my experience, I am already 2 decades in and have only seen slight leaking in a vessel that resolved with better control of my blood sugar. The key is good control and regular visits to the eye dr. Ensure that they dilate his eyes every visit (it’s uncomfortable, but the best way to see thoroughly). As hard as it may be, don’t get caught up in everything you read. Technologies are advancing all of the time, so just try to use any tools at your disposal like cgm, pump and your healthcare team.
@@alliemay6076 thanks for your reply. Blood sugar control will never be perfect with the current technology and our best efforts but hopefully good enough to have a good long live without the brutal complications. I am pleased to hear how well you are doing.
It's admirable that you want to recycle your plastic but I believe that different types (numbers) of plastic must be separated in order to recycle them. I think that's what Abbott means when it says it's not easy to recycle their materials because of the need to disassemble them.
Hi Bruce Im in Ohio. I use the Libre and have an account with Abbott for my Libre view account. My current account is separate from the Abbott store and I had to set up an account with the Abbott store. My recycling bags are on the way no charge. Hope this helps
While recycling this stuff is a great idea, the grim reality is that plastics are not recyclable. Of all the plastic waste, only about 5% is actually recycled in the real world. I use syringes and insulin vials, and re-use the syringes many times, and use a glucose meter and strips: my hba1c has been at around 4.5% for many years. My type 1 was diagnosed in 1965; I have no complications: is all this high tech stuff necessary?
That is impressive control! I am not anywhere close to a 4.5% HbA1c. And I am sure without the tech I would not even be where I am now. You have my respect. Thank you for sharing!
None of the plastic in this would be recycled. Only type 1 and 2 plastic is recycled. The needle floating freely in a sharps container is also VERY bad.
The basic problem is crap design. There is no reason why the majority of the plastic cannot be reused with just a few small changes to the design. That way you get one applicator with your first and just the sensor and needle when you need to replace it.
mine arrived today and i was horrified that the plastic applicator is one time use only, meaning i have to throw it out everytime i use it, like wtf thats alot of plastic waste. why did abbott made it that way? i am advocating for lessening plastic waste so throwing out my plastic applicator everytime feels awful.
WATCH NEXT: Huge FreeStyle Libre mistakes that will cost you th-cam.com/video/XL26kO91O04/w-d-xo.html
How to calibrate FreeStyle Libre th-cam.com/video/_A_QksKEduo/w-d-xo.html
Check out my Patreon page where you can ask me anything and watch my bonus content. I always respond to my patrons www.patreon.com/typeonetalks
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.
You are welcome!
Big issue is all the different types of plastic. Sometimes the plastic has a molded triangle with a number inside which means what type of plastic it is. Not all of it is a recyclable plastic and it gets sorted out and goes to a landfill. Sad. I use Dexcom and that inserter is enormous. I would like to see Dexcom come up with a program like Abbotts.
I love how much information you cover in each video. You have the mind of an engineer.
Thank you very much!
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
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!
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.
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.
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!! 🇨🇦
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
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!
Thanks for the recycling tips Tom. Great initiative by Abbott to recycle.. Hope it takes off worldwide ASAP!
I hope so too! Thank you for watching!
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 😊
Awesome. I am so happy to hear that! You’re most welcome Lisa! Thank you for your generous support! It means a lot!
I’m actually type 2 but I’m subscribed because I appreciate your video
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.
Thanks for this info, Tom. I have long wondered how to recycle it all.
You’re most welcome! Thanks for watching!
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. ❤🌎✌
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.
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.
Thank you so much for the link. I have so many saved up and I can't wait to recycle these!
I am in the UK, I tried to extend the time but not able to download the app. Could you please give the link. Very useful information. I am going to try Avacado and Tomato salad for breakfast🙏🙏
M. B.v vfc
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!
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.
Thank you so much and thanks for sharing! You are most welcome!
Thank you for this! I just ordered a bag from Abbott.
Excellent! You’re most welcome!
Thanks so very much. Directions easy and made it so simple. God Bless you.
Excellent video. I'm going to send my kit back to Abbott. 😺
Thank you!
Excellent info Tom and me too Cat😊
@@TypeOneTalks I also registered with Abbott and have requested a "take-back" shipping back!
Thank you Tom for this info. Got mine ordered today, thanks for that link buddy!!
thanks I just ordered my recycling kit!
Excellent!
I used this sensor the first time last year. I'm not a diabetic just used it to identify sugar spiking food in my diet. I was shocked when realised this amount of waste. The sensor is just 10 grams, 70 grams the tool to place the sensor. This type of plastic would not be officially recycled in Ireland. So it is an environmental disaster for hundreds of thousands of years. Good to hear about the Abbot recycle scheme but again, not in Ireland as I feared. Why do you cant use the placing tool for a year or so and just get the sensor replaced? If the needle in this joke stitching your skin why it cant be sterilised after use? Anyway, your channel is helpful, thanks for it.
Hey, man, great channel! How the heck did you find out about the takeback program?? I went on the Freestyle website and searched for "recycle"/"recycling," and ZERO results popped up! I also googled the subject, and your videos were among the top results! 👍 But NO results from the company - I'm pretty peeved that the company doesn't make this info readily available! 😠 Before I saw your video I was seriously considering shipping the plastic pieces back to the company using the address on the sensor box (at my own expense) - along with a snarky letter about the issue. So I'm REALLY glad to have found your video! (from another Seattle area viewer)
I tried ABBOTT's recycle app and I guess that it isn't up and running yet in the USA,I live in Seattle Washington, Thanks anyway I watch all of your shows and they are all very helpful, I am type to.
I'm in Portland right below you. It is working nowadays.
Good to know. I just ordered my return bag
Excellent! Good luck!
It wasn't hard to figure this one out, unlike Dexcom, but the recycle program isn't available in Canada. You said maybe in about 6 months but it's almost a year.
Any thoughts on why each sensor has a new applicator instead of buying a reusable applicator?
I cannot get the grey plastic part you talk about right at the beginning to break. I looked at the video several times and cannot see how to do it. Where do you apply the pressure and in which direction? At this rate it has taken me already 5 minutes and I still haven't managed to remove the part so I must be doing something wrong.
Can I make workout(lifting) with the sensor?
Tom love your videos let me know when the Dexcome G7 comes out can U do more on the Dexcome G7 Please in the next video ASAP
NO take back program in Canada they tell me.
Not all plastics are recyclable so while I could go through the steps and put it in my bin it will get sent to a landfill from there.
Are you sure yours actually gets recycled?
Indeed. In Calgary, Canada, the city’s website says that hard plastic items that are not containers go to the landfill:
“Put miscellaneous plastic items into the black cart as garbage.
This includes items like:
Plastic toys
Laundry baskets
DVD cases, CD cases, cassette tape cases
Tarps
Plastic patio furniture
Why can't this be recycled?
Plastics that are too large, too small, or odd shapes cannot be processed properly at the recycling facility. Even if they have a recycling symbol 1-7, it cannot be recycled. Only recycle proper plastic containers like jugs, bottles, and tubs.”
Does anyone know if Abbott has a recycling/take-back program for Canada yet?
Why has Abbott removed your 28 day video? was just going to watch it!
It is now back. I successfully defended the claim.
Hi Tom, could you do a video about vision loss associated with t1d? Can it be prevented and how? I read nearly every type 1 diabetic has retinopathy two decades after diagnosis . My son was diagnosed when he was 5 and he would only be 25,
From my experience, I am already 2 decades in and have only seen slight leaking in a vessel that resolved with better control of my blood sugar. The key is good control and regular visits to the eye dr. Ensure that they dilate his eyes every visit (it’s uncomfortable, but the best way to see thoroughly). As hard as it may be, don’t get caught up in everything you read. Technologies are advancing all of the time, so just try to use any tools at your disposal like cgm, pump and your healthcare team.
@@alliemay6076 thanks for your reply. Blood sugar control will never be perfect with the current technology and our best efforts but hopefully good enough to have a good long live without the brutal complications. I am pleased to hear how well you are doing.
Love this!!!! Thanks so much
You are most welcome Crystal!
I called Abbott and they said that I forgot to put in my address, Thank for the help.Bruce
You are most welcome Bruce!
I have the free shipping bag for returns. We’ll see how that goes.
Is there any gold in them ?
It's admirable that you want to recycle your plastic but I believe that different types (numbers) of plastic must be separated in order to recycle them. I think that's what Abbott means when it says it's not easy to recycle their materials because of the need to disassemble them.
I tried ABBOTT and the web sight isn't working in the USA yet, Know recycle, Seattle Washington. Thanks anyway.
Hi Bruce Im in Ohio. I use the Libre and have an account with Abbott for my Libre view account. My current account is separate from the Abbott store and I had to set up an account with the Abbott store. My recycling bags are on the way no charge. Hope this helps
changing it to "renewable energy" sounds to me like burning the stuff. Not really recycling.
how to factory reset for reader?
Thank you.
Tak takhle to rozebírám už od prvního senzoru 😏.
Super!
Couldn't they make it out of recyclable plastic?
While recycling this stuff is a great idea, the grim reality is that plastics are not recyclable. Of all the plastic waste, only about 5% is actually recycled in the real world. I use syringes and insulin vials, and re-use the syringes many times, and use a glucose meter and strips: my hba1c has been at around 4.5% for many years. My type 1 was diagnosed in 1965; I have no complications: is all this high tech stuff necessary?
That is impressive control! I am not anywhere close to a 4.5% HbA1c. And I am sure without the tech I would not even be where I am now. You have my respect. Thank you for sharing!
All these components should be made out of paper instead of plastic
Hi Tom. haw are your sugars
Thank you for asking! They have been no so great. I actually shared a bit on this topic in my last week's video.
Why the hell do we need a new applicator each time??
Disagree. Should sell one applicator with 6 sensors! Saves shipping, saves plastic
None of the plastic in this would be recycled. Only type 1 and 2 plastic is recycled. The needle floating freely in a sharps container is also VERY bad.
👏👏👏👏👏 😂🇦🇺
The basic problem is crap design. There is no reason why the majority of the plastic cannot be reused with just a few small changes to the design. That way you get one applicator with your first and just the sensor and needle when you need to replace it.
And after recycling it all, our govs just dump it all in the ocean.
I thought the video is how to reuse sensor. Abbot is making too much money. their patency should end.
mine arrived today
and i was horrified that the plastic applicator is one time use only, meaning i have to throw it out everytime i use it, like wtf thats alot of plastic waste.
why did abbott made it that way?
i am advocating for lessening plastic waste so throwing out my plastic applicator everytime feels awful.