Description
In this presentation, Preetham Kodumuri discusses the critical topic of integrating low carbon practices into daily clinical routines, particularly focusing on surgical settings within the healthcare system. He opens by acknowledging the audience and outlining the session's aim to explore practical alternatives to reduce carbon emissions in surgery. Identifying carbon hotspots, he points out that a significant factor lies within surgical environments, emphasizing the need for surgeons to take initiative.
Kodumuri draws attention to the overarching carbon footprint of the NHS, suggesting that while most emissions arise from non-medical equipment and supply chains, surgeons hold considerable control over their operational practices, which contribute to approximately 5% of the total footprint. He illustrates the types of emissions categorized into Scope 1, Scope 2, and especially Scope 3 emissions, which largely happen behind the scenes.
He highlights the environmental impact of surgical consumables, questioning the prevailing belief that single-use items are superior to reusable ones regarding infection control and cost-effectiveness. Kodumuri shares examples from his own practice, challenging the norm of single-use instruments and urging a shift towards reusable options, citing that proper assessment shows reusables to be more environmentally viable and economically sound over time.
Kodumuri stresses the importance of engaging with the surgical supply chain to mitigate unnecessary transport emissions and encourages looking into greener alternatives by optimizing instruments, reducing waste, and exploring virtual follow-ups. By promoting patient empowerment and involvement in decision-making about their treatments, he proposes that they may choose more sustainable pathways for care delivery.
In closing, he reinforces that true sustainability in healthcare must balance patient benefit, cost-efficiency for hospitals, and positive environmental impacts. He calls for continued discourse and advocacy to progress toward more sustainable practices, ultimately aiming for a transformation that centers on prevention and health empowerment.