The Impact of Modern Imaging Techniques on Carbon Footprints: Relevance and Outlook
Elmar M. Merkle, Fabian Bamberg, Jan Vosshenrich
Abstract
emissions, with medical imaging representing an energy-intensive contributor. We outline the carbon footprint of the imaging modalities most relevant to urology and list practical recommendations that can have a positive impact on sustainability. PATIENT SUMMARY: Energy use for medical imaging scans is a significant contributor to carbon emissions by the health care sector. Steps to improve sustainability can include choosing the least energy-intensive option among the scan types suitable for each patient and condition, and switching off equipment when it is not in use.
Topics & Concepts
Carbon footprintMedicineSustainabilityRelevance (law)ModalitiesMedical imagingHealth careGreenhouse gasEnergy sectorMedical physicsIntensive care medicineRadiologyNatural resource economicsEconomic growthLawSocial scienceBiologyEcologyEconomicsSociologyPolitical scienceClimate Change and Health ImpactsHealthcare cost, quality, practicesRadiation Dose and Imaging