Reducing Anaesthesia's Carbon Footprint: A Survey of Awareness and Attitudes.

Authors

H Anderson, A Goodings, O Nordrum, G Iohom

Published in

Irish medical journal. Volume 119. Issue 6. Pages 110. Jun 18, 2026. Epub Jun 18, 2026.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore Irish anaesthesiologists' attitudes toward environmentally sustainable anaesthesia, including perceptions of safety, efficacy, and policy influences on anaesthetic choice.
A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to anaesthesiologists across Ireland between March and June 2025. The questionnaire assessed demographic factors, preferences for intravenous versus inhalational anaesthesia, environmental awareness, and institutional support. Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were performed.
A total of 98 responses were received. Patient factors and ease of administration were the primary determinants of anaesthetic choice, while cost was less influential. Environmental considerations were common, with 71 (72%) reporting they consider environmental impact when selecting an anaesthetic technique. Most respondents (n=86, 88%) were willing to modify their practice to reduce environmental harm, yet 55 (56%) felt their institution did not provide adequate environmental education or guidance.
Irish anaesthesiologists demonstrate strong awareness and willingness to engage in sustainable practice, but institutional training and policy support remain limited. Targeted education and system-level initiatives may enhance environmentally responsible anaesthetic care.

PMID:
42348256
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 25 Jun 2026.

Stats

1-terrible, 9-excellent. How would you rate this publication? Sign in in to submit your rating.

Post a comment

You need to be signed in to post comments. You can sign in here.

Comments

There are no comments yet.