Healthcare systems account for up to 4.4% of the world’s carbon footprint, and it is well established within hospitals that operating theatres are some of the most energy-intensive spaces. 

The NHS has recognised the impact it makes towards climate change by setting an ambitious target to reach net-zero of carbon emissions by 2045. This means a reduction in current levels of carbon emissions by at least 80% by 2036.

Within North Bristol Trust, we organised a Green Operating Day to implement carbon-saving measures rooted in the Intercollegiate Green Surgical Checklist and the Green Surgery Report to test the feasibility of implementing these measures across three neurosurgical theatres and 10 operative cases.