Prevention is Greener than cure – practical steps to reduce the carbon footprint of infection prevention and control services
Rajeka Lazarus
Consultant in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston, Bristol, UK & UK Health Security Agency
Changes in the climate and extreme weather events are inextricably linked to the widening geographical distribution of infectious diseases, and increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance. Reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare services is needed to improve the health of our patients and the planet. Concerns about the transmission of infection have led to practices that are not environmentally sustainable. Such practices include the overuse of personal protective equipment, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the reliance on single-use products within the operating theatre. Adopting a reduce, reuse, and recycle framework alongside robust evidence and infection control leadership could help generate more sustainable practices.