Analyzing the Carbon Footprint of an Intravitreal Injection

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Environmental Science
• Healthcare Sustainability

Background:

• Healthcare practices contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Intravitreal injections are a common procedure with an associated environmental impact.
• Understanding the carbon footprint of medical procedures is crucial for sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the carbon footprint of a single intravitreal injection.
• To identify key contributors to the environmental impact of intravitreal injections.
• To explore potential strategies for reducing emissions in ophthalmic services.

Main Methods:

• A hybrid lifecycle analysis was employed to calculate greenhouse gas emissions.
• Data collection included material procurement, patient travel, and building energy consumption.
• Emissions were assessed for a hospital-based intravitreal service.

Main Results:

• A single intravitreal injection generates 13.68 kg CO2 eq (excluding the drug).
• Patient travel constitutes the largest emission source (77%), followed by procurement (19%).
• Eliminating dispensable items could save 0.56 kg CO2 eq per injection, totaling 3,360 kg CO2 eq annually for the service.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare waste and inefficient practices exacerbate climate change.
• The healthcare sector must champion sustainable practices, focusing on high-volume procedures.
• Long-acting therapeutic agents present a significant opportunity for future emission reductions.