Environmental Impact of Dermatology and Action Towards It: A Narrative Review

There is a dual interplay between the environment and healthcare, which is associated with around 6% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, high water consumption, and large volumes of waste. Dermatology encompasses peculiarities such as the extensive use of topicals and cosmeceuticals, specific procedural treatments, and a wide range of activities spanning from dermatopathology to the use of biologicals. Some of these aspects might bear a significant environmental footprint, which has been characterized insufficiently until this point. According to recent data, the greatest share of overall GHG emissions associated with outpatient dermatology is purchased goods and services, followed by patient travel and waste, paralleling the health sector overall. To address these topics, six working groups on climate change or sustainability exist within the following dermatology associations: the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD), the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology (EADV), the German Society of Dermatology (DDG), and the International Society of Dermatology (ISD). Member activities include scientific projects (original research and review articles, symposia in national conferences), provision of educational materials for trainees and peers, and advocacy. Dermatologists should be familiar with the environmental and climate impact of daily practice and use available resources for more information. At this time, a significant gap exists between individual sustainability efforts and the integration of these practices into policy. We propose to strengthen international collaborations within the field to provide more sustainable dermatological care.