Approaching sustainability in Laboratory Medicine.

Abstract

Clinical laboratories and the total testing process are major consumers of energy, water, and hazardous chemicals, and produce significant amounts of biomedical waste. Since the processes in the clinical laboratory and the total testing process go hand in hand it mandates a holistic, and comprehensive approach towards sustainability. This review article identifies the various sources and activities in Laboratory Medicine that challenge sustainability and also discusses the various approaches thatcan be implemented to achieve sustainability in laboratory operations to reduce the negative impact on the environment. The article highlights how the integration of technological advancements, efficient resource management, staff training and sensitization, protocol development towards sustainability, and other environmental considerations contributes significantly to a sustainable healthcare ecosystem. Variables and resources that negatively impact the environment must be identified and addressed comprehensively to attain a long-lasting level of carbon neutrality.