ESAIC’s mission and vision extend beyond clinical excellence; they encompass a commitment to the holistic well-being of patients, healthcare professionals, and the environment. In adopting the Glasgow Declaration, ESAIC reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable healthcare practices. The declaration emphasises the importance of integrating sustainability into the core of healthcare delivery. Building upon this commitment, the ESAIC Sustainability Committee has now released a ground-breaking publication that solidifies the society’s dedication to sustainability.
The publication titled “European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Consensus Document on Sustainability” is a testament to ESAIC’s unwavering commitment to sustainability in perioperative care. Authored by a consortium of experts and endorsed by Sustainability National Representatives from 24 countries, this document presents a comprehensive framework for achieving a more sustainable practice in anaesthesia and intensive care.
The document explores sustainability in four pivotal areas, acknowledging that sustainability encompasses not only environmental concerns but also broader dimensions:
- Direct Emissions: Recommendations in this area focus on reducing the carbon footprint of anaesthesia procedures through measures such as very low fresh gas flow and the selection of eco-friendly anaesthetic drugs.
- Energy: This section highlights strategies for conserving energy and water resources within healthcare facilities.
- Supply Chain and Waste Management: It offers insights into sustainable procurement practices, responsible disposal of plastics, and the adoption of “5R” policies.
- Psychological and Self-Care of Healthcare Professionals: Recognising the vital role of healthcare professionals in delivering sustainable care, this section emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy work environment and addressing issues like fatigue and burn-out.
