Actionable avenues for dermatologists to reduce their environmental impact

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Dermatology

Background:

• Climate change presents significant health risks, including impacts on dermatologic conditions.
• The U.S. healthcare sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Decarbonization efforts are crucial for mitigating the healthcare sector's environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze existing recommendations for environmental sustainability in dermatology.
• To propose novel, actionable interventions for decarbonizing dermatologic practices.
• To highlight recent resources and regulatory changes relevant to healthcare sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Commentary and analysis of published sustainability recommendations.
• Review of recent decarbonization resources and regulatory updates.
• Identification of novel interventions for environmental sustainability in dermatology.

Main Results:

• Existing recommendations cover energy, waste, and advocacy.
• Novel interventions include reassessing procedure kits, minimizing medication waste, and green procurement.
• Further considerations involve transit, technology, single-use items, patient education, carbon credits, and community resilience.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need to address the healthcare sector's contribution to climate change.
• Actionable strategies are available to enhance environmental sustainability in dermatology.
• A multi-faceted approach is required, integrating operational changes, policy advocacy, and community engagement.