Radiologists Propose Actions to Combat Climate Change
Written by Arushi Sharma
A University of Toronto-led team outlines strategies in RSNA's Radiology for radiology departments to cut emissions and tackle climate change, emphasizing reusable supplies and equipment optimization.
A team of authors, led by individuals at the University of Toronto, has developed a comprehensive approach for radiology departments and practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience to climate change effects.
Their recommendations, outlined in a Radiology in Focus article published in the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) journal Radiology, aim to raise awareness about the critical connection between planetary health and radiology and to provide actionable steps for mitigating environmental impact.
Dr. Kate Hanneman, the lead author and Vice Chair of Research at the University of Toronto, highlighted the urgency of addressing rising greenhouse gas emissions and their adverse effects on climate, air quality, and public health.
The goal of the article is to underscore the importance of sustainability in radiology and to offer practical measures for reducing emissions and preparing for climate change impacts.
Radiology contributes to climate change through the production and use of medical imaging equipment and supplies, accounting for up to one percent of overall emissions. The authors propose a coordinated approach for radiology departments, emphasizing the establishment of sustainability teams and dashboards to track performance metrics.
Key interventions suggested include transitioning to reusable medical supplies, optimizing equipment usage by powering down when not in use, and implementing decision-support tools to prioritize lower-energy imaging tests. Additionally, the authors advocate for collaboration with manufacturers to refurbish equipment and establish sustainable waste management programs to reduce packaging waste.
Dr. Hanneman emphasized the need for creativity and flexibility in implementing these recommendations, acknowledging that not all actions may be feasible for every radiology department. The proposed measures aim to align with the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling to promote sustainability within the field of radiology.
The article, part of a special sustainability-themed issue of Radiology in honor of Earth Day, underscores the importance of addressing climate change within the healthcare sector. Two additional articles published alongside the focus on energy savings associated with abbreviated cardiac MRI protocols and the environmental impact of MRI contrast agents, further emphasize the role of radiology in environmental stewardship.