By removing high-emissions anesthetics from operating theatres and implementing low-flow anesthesia machines, Raigmore Hospital significantly reduced emissions produced by their operating theatres. This initiative was implemented as a part of the Green Theatre Project, which consists of 11 actions to make operating theatres more sustainable. The project was so effective that it was integrated into the NHS Scotland climate emergency and sustainability strategy for 2022 through 2026 as the national green theatres program.
UC San Diego’s commitment to the Cool Food Pledge has led the system to develop tools and programs to procure and serve more plant-based meals while increasing the use of local and seasonal offerings. The goal of Cool Food is to reduce GHGs from food purchasing by 25% by 2030.
In an effort to seek data on the amount of nitrous oxide that was used by providers in 2021, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) EPIC Optime analysts reviewed the hospital’s anesthesia providers’ records to determine the amount of gas administered versus the amount of gas the amount of gas purchased. (EPIC is the facility’s electronic health record, and Optime is the application providers in the perioperative department use for all of their documentation.)
Climate Learning Initiative - Case studies: Learning objective 1
Gathering support and resource allocation from leadership, and an expressed commitment to climate action
As the UN negotiations for an international treaty to prevent plastic pollution proceeds, this FAQ addresses some of the most common questions related to plastics in general and healthcare plastics in particular.