Canadian Association of Radiologists Statement on Environmental Sustainability in Medical Imaging

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Medical Imaging Sustainability

Background:

• Climate change poses significant risks to Canadian health, including air pollution and extreme weather.
• Radiology contributes to greenhouse gas emissions through equipment and supply chains.
• Radiology departments face operational disruptions from climate-related events and health impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for environmentally sustainable radiology practices in Canada.
• To minimize the environmental footprint of delivering radiology services.
• To enhance the resilience of radiology departments to climate change impacts.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing the environmental impact of radiology.
• Assessing climate change vulnerabilities of radiology departments.
• Developing recommendations for sustainable and resilient radiology.

Main Results:

• Radiology's dual role in contributing to and being affected by climate change is identified.
• Specific recommendations are provided for stakeholders to achieve net-zero and climate-resilient operations.
• Examples of existing sustainable radiology programs in Canada are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Urgent action is required to integrate environmental sustainability and climate resilience into Canadian radiology.
• Collaborative efforts among radiologists, leadership, industry, and government are crucial for this transition.
• The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) is committed to guiding this transformation.