Sustainability
As you may know, world leaders recently gathered in Glasgow for the COP26 summit for vital discussions to commit to urgent global climate action.
The connection between healthcare and climate change is significant with some 5% of global carbon emissions come from healthcare as an industry, but in Australia, it’s over 7% – the highest in the world: It is well evident that we cannot afford to wait to act against the threat of climate change. We must work together to protect our planet and people and ensure a greener and better future for us all.
How can podiatrists be part of the solution?
A great starting point is learning as much as you can about sustainability and creating a Green Podiatry strategy.
APodA board member Angela Evans recently gave a lecture to the 2021 final year podiatry students at University of Western Sydney, just prior to COP26. This is a 45 minute undergraduate lecture is a basic summary of the crucial interrelationships between healthcare and climate change. The lecture can be viewed here.
The APodA will be sharing more resources to support Green Podiatry in the months ahead and are committed to continuing to grow our efforts and focus on this high priority issue.
Sustainability resources and inspiration:
- Sir David Attenborough – who has urged leaders to turn ‘tragedy into triumph’
- STRIDE article - Giving attention to big picture health in 2022, Angela Evans (Page 28)
- JFAR Article - Sustainable healthcare - Time for 'Green Podiatry', Angela Evans
| Effort estimates | Action examples |
|---|---|
| Easy, immediate | e-comms, e-records (data security!), reusable shopping bags, buy local, less packaging, turn off lights, adjust temperature settings re heat/cooling |
| Some organisation | LED lighting, avoid packaging as much as possible, and set up recycling eg paper/plastics/foils; use e-waste and recycling depots |
| More commitment | Public transport/walk.ride a bicycle as possible (even 1-2 days/weel to work - with a friend/colleague), switch to renewable energy (add solar panels - work/home), car share commutes |
| Bigger issues | Limit air travel, esp. long haul overseas, plan for an e-car, purchase power (eg buy local), contact your MP - think about your vote |