Going green in gynecology: a call to action

Abstract

The climate change crisis poses a central threat to public health. The health outcomes of this crisis are well known, but lesser known to medical professionals is the role that healthcare delivery plays in worsening this crisis. The United States healthcare system is responsible for producing 10% of the total greenhouse gases. The adverse health outcomes caused by the overall healthcare system emissions in the United States is estimated to be 470,000 disability-adjusted life years lost, which is commensurate with the 44,000 to 98,000 people who die in hospitals each year in the United States as a consequence of preventable medical errors. Factors that contribute to healthcare greenhouse gas emissions include emissions from our facilities and from the purchase, transport, and use of supplies and waste. In the purview of obstetrics and gynecology, providers should minimize their use of disposable supplies, replace single-use specula with stainless steel specula, and educate themselves and operating room staff about best waste disposal practices. In addition, they can use their individual and collective voice to advocate for sustainable energy and supply practices. A transformation in the way we supply and power our hospitals is needed, and providers should be early adopters of this transformational change. Physician buy-in is essential to decrease the carbon footprint of our care. This narrative is a call to action for obstetricians and gynecologists to reduce our carbon footprint as a public health measure to uphold the quality of care we provide to women.