ASGE Postgraduate Course at ACG: Innovative Practices for the Endoscopist of Today, Tomorrow and Beyond | October 2023-12_De Latour

12_De Latour_ASGE PG Course Going Green Recording

Pdf Summary

The presentation "Going Green: Sustainability in Endoscopy" by Dr. Rabia de Latour, discusses the environmental implications and proposed interventions to reduce the carbon footprint of endoscopic practices. Key definitions clarified include distinctions between weather, climate change, global warming, and fossil fuels. The healthcare sector's significant contributions to waste generation and greenhouse gas emissions are highlighted, with U.S. hospitals generating an average of 29 to 43 pounds of trash per patient daily.<br /><br />Healthcare's impact on the environment is presented through various statistics, noting that a single endoscopy procedure generates significant CO2 emissions, equivalent to driving 21 to 25 miles. With 18 million endoscopy procedures conducted annually in the U.S., this results in substantial waste, primarily directed to landfills and biohazard processing.<br /><br />The presentation emphasizes the critical link between climate change and public health, citing adverse effects on gastrointestinal health due to factors like inadequate nutrition and water access, and increased prevalence of enteric infections and hepatitis. The need for global action is supported through data and reports from reputable sources such as The Lancet and the IPCC.<br /><br />Dr. de Latour proposes several strategies for making endoscopy practices more sustainable. Key interventions include advocating for policy changes, increasing reuse and recycling efforts, adopting telemedicine, reducing unnecessary procedures, and using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions. Specific measures for endoscopy suites include implementing double basin washers, biodegradable packaging, preference cards, and reprocessing devices for reuse.<br /><br />Collaborative efforts with GI societies and industry stakeholders are encouraged, with 51 nations having committed to decarbonizing their health industries. The presentation concludes with actionable steps for reducing environmental impact, such as donating expired devices and promoting plant-based diets.<br /><br />In summary, the presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the environmental challenges posed by endoscopy and offers practical solutions to mitigate these impacts within the healthcare sector.

Keywords

Sustainability

Endoscopy

Carbon Footprint

Climate Change

Healthcare Waste

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Recycling

Telemedicine

Environmental Impact

Public Health