# Climate-Conscious Glaucoma Care: Strategies to Minimize the Environmental Impact in the Operating Room and in the Clinic

## TL;DR

This paper explores ways to reduce the environmental impact of glaucoma care by changing practices in surgeries and clinics.

## Contribution

The paper introduces practical strategies to reduce emissions in glaucoma care without compromising patient safety.

## Key findings

- Transportation, single-use items, and waste are major emission sources in glaucoma care.
- Using reusable equipment and smaller packaging can significantly reduce emissions.
- Telehealth and bilateral procedures can help lower the environmental footprint.

## Abstract

The healthcare sector contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. There is an increasing prevalence of glaucoma, and glaucoma surgeries, nonsurgical treatment, and clinic follow-up contribute to these emissions. Some of the main sources of emissions associated with glaucoma care are related to transportation to and from surgical centers and clinic, single use equipment and eye drops, excessive device packaging, and waste produced in the operating room. There are several changes we can make to our practice patterns to help mitigate these emissions while maintaining safe and effective care for our glaucoma patients. We should emphasize disinfecting equipment properly rather than purchasing single-use items. We should perform procedures that utilize equipment that is locally available and recommend manufacturers to use smaller packages for glaucoma devices. We should strive to perform bilateral procedures when safe for patients. Finally, we should integrate telehealth into our regular practice.