Climate change is a well-recognized phenomenon. In Canada, the effects of climate change are manifested through, among other things, forest fires. On a global scale, rising temperatures are associated with increasing food insecurity and malnutrition, a higher risk of life-threatening infectious diseases, and a growing risk for economic losses. Additionally, healthcare, including oral healthcare, contributes to climate change.
This article, published in the September 2024 issue of FOCUS, discusses the following topics:
- Carbon footprint of oral healthcare, including staff and client travel, procurement practices, waste, and energy and water use.
- Strategies to reduce this carbon footprint.
- Future consideration for advocacy and exploration in this area.
Click here to read the full article.