An observational study evaluating the environmental impact of equine arthroscopy

Area of Science:

• Veterinary medicine
• Environmental science
• Sustainability

Background:

• Global human activities have surpassed planetary boundaries.
• The veterinary sector must mitigate its environmental footprint.
• Equine veterinary procedures contribute to ecological impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the carbon footprint of equine arthroscopy.
• To identify key areas for environmental impact reduction in veterinary practices.
• To assess the contribution of anaesthesia, consumables, waste, energy, and travel to emissions.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study of 10 horses undergoing arthroscopy at a UK equine hospital.
• Data collection on anaesthesia, volatile capture, pharmaceuticals, consumables, waste, energy, and travel.
• Carbon emissions (kgCO2e) calculated using a hybrid approach combining bottom-up and environmentally extended input-output (EEIO) modelling.

Main Results:

• Total emissions for 10 procedures were 2044 kgCO2e.
• Transport was the largest contributor (42%), primarily owner travel.
• Single-use consumables (21%) and pharmaceuticals (11%) were also significant emission sources.

Conclusions:

• Transport and single-use consumables are priority areas for sustainability interventions in equine veterinary care.
• Reducing emissions from travel and consumables can significantly lower the environmental impact of procedures.
• Further research is needed to address limitations in emission factor availability and generalizability.