ASGE Postgraduate Course at ACG: Innovative Practices for the Endoscopist of Today, Tomorrow and Beyond | October 2023-Going Green Sustainability in Endoscopy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Rabia De La Tour from NYU Langone Health discusses the impact of climate change on healthcare and the ways in which healthcare providers can contribute to sustainability efforts. Climate change is caused by the release of greenhouse gases, mainly carbon dioxide, from burning fossil fuels. The healthcare industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for 4.4% globally and 8.5% in the US. In the context of endoscopy, waste production is a significant contributor to the carbon footprint. In the US alone, 18 million endoscopies are performed each year, generating a large amount of waste. By implementing simple measures, such as recycling, reducing unnecessary procedures, and using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions, healthcare providers can make a positive impact on reducing their carbon footprint. It is crucial for healthcare providers to address climate change as it poses a threat to public health, exacerbating existing challenges in access to nutrition and clean water and affecting mental health outcomes. By taking action, healthcare providers can contribute to mitigating the effects of global warming and protecting the environment for future generations.

Asset Subtitle

Rabia De Latour, MD

Keywords

climate change

healthcare

sustainability efforts

greenhouse gas emissions

endoscopy waste production