Sustainability practices made easy

Abstract

Climate change is a significant challenge worldwide, with implications ranging from extreme weather events to rising sea levels and ecosystem disruptions. Addressing these issues requires a shift towards sustainable practices and global solutions. Healthcare and ophthalmology have a significant responsibility and an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and waste, increase efficiency, and maintain safety and quality. Ophthalmology impact is relevant for the high number of patients and procedures, high patient volumes requiring travel to clinics, and extensive use of single-use disposable materials. Eye practices can be more sustainable by optimizing ventilation, using alcohol-based hand rubs, reducing drug waste by reusing medications, and reducing packaging waste. In patient management, we can reduce postoperative visits, evaluate bilateral surgeries, and minimize SF6 gas. The ophthalmology community should critically reassess daily practices to enhance sustainability.