A carbon calculator: the development of a user-friendly greenhouse gas measuring tool for general dental practice (Part 2).

Abstract

The need to reduce carbon emissions and limit global warming to 1.5 °C has spurred various sectors towards net-zero emission goals. This paper introduces a specialised carbon calculator for dental practices to compute and monitor their carbon footprints (CFPs). The carbon calculator is developed using recent carbon modelling, utilising methodologies and data from estimating the average NHS dental practice's CFP. It employs both spend-based and activity-based carbon accounting methods, simplifying carbon emission estimation. It offers dental practices a user-friendly, rudimentary, cost-free tool to determine their baseline CFP and track sustainability progress. It includes conversion factors for patient travel, procurement and waste management, enabling practices to input data and generate personalised CFP charts. It also acknowledges assumptions and uncertainties related to procurement and waste management, emphasising the availability of personalised consultancy services for more precise carbon footprinting. This carbon calculator supports environmental sustainability in dental practices as an accessible starting point. By raising awareness of their CFP, it encourages progress in 'green dentistry' and promotes environmental responsibility in oral healthcare. The calculator is freely downloadable and part of a broader 'green dentistry' initiative. Continuous carbon emission measurement and monitoring are crucial for a sustainable future, with this tool aiding dental practitioners in their environmental contributions.