By EORNA Vice-President, Ólafur Guðbjörn Skúlason
Sustainability in healthcare is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. As perioperative nurses, we are on the frontline of patient care, but we must also recognize our role in reducing the environmental impact of operating rooms (ORs). Hospitals generate a significant amount of waste and consume vast resources, and the OR is one of the most resource-intensive areas. But small changes in our daily practice can make a big difference.
The OR’s Environmental Challenge
Did you know that the healthcare sector is responsible for nearly 5% of global carbon emissions? A significant portion of this comes from surgery-related activities, including single-use plastics, disposable surgical instruments, and high energy consumption. The challenge is clear: how can we maintain the highest standards of patient care while reducing our environmental footprint?
Sustainable Actions in the OR
🌿 Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Opt for reusable surgical gowns, drapes, and instrument sets where safe and feasible. 💡 Conserve Energy: Use energy-efficient lighting, optimize heating and cooling, and power down equipment when not in use. ♻️ Improve Waste Segregation: Proper disposal of medical waste can significantly reduce landfill contributions. 🏥 Advocate for Green Procurement: Support suppliers that prioritize sustainable production and eco-friendly packaging.
Nurses as Sustainability Champions
Perioperative nurses can lead the way by raising awareness, optimizing supply usage, and pushing for sustainability initiatives within their hospitals. It starts with small, simple actions, but together, we can drive meaningful change.
At EORNA, we believe in supporting practical solutions for greener healthcare. That’s why we are proud to partner with Ansell in launching the new EORNA-Ansell Sustainability Fund—a key initiative to spark conversations and drive real action towards more sustainable operating rooms. This fund aims to support innovative projects that will shape the future of environmentally responsible perioperative care. For information on the fun, go here.
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