Advancing Sustainability In Ophthalmic Surgeries And Interventions: A Narrative Review Of Environmental Impact And Best Practices

Healthcare is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and ophthalmology, particularly through high-volume surgeries such as cataract, glaucoma, and retina interventions, has a considerable environmental impact. This review explores the environmental consequences of ophthalmic surgeries and highlights strategies to reduce their carbon footprint.

This review synthesizes current research and case studies on sustainable practices in ophthalmic surgical settings, with a focus on high-volume eye care institutions.

A comprehensive analysis of recent literature was conducted to assess the carbon footprint of key ophthalmic surgeries. Sources of emissions, including single-use disposables, energy consumption, and the use of potent greenhouse gases such as sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) in retina surgery, were identified. Sustainable strategies such as transitioning to reusable instruments, reducing pharmaceutical waste, optimizing energy use, and using air tamponade as an alternative to high global warming potential (GWP) gases were evaluated.

Findings indicate that ophthalmic surgeries contribute significantly to environmental pollution, primarily through resource-intensive practices. Case studies, such as the sustainable initiatives at Aravind Eye Hospital, demonstrate that high-quality ophthalmic care can be achieved while reducing environmental impact. Evidence supports the feasibility of adopting sustainable alternatives without compromising patient safety or surgical outcomes.

By implementing evidence-based sustainable practices, ophthalmology can significantly reduce its ecological footprint while maintaining high standards of care. Integrating environmentally responsible strategies aligns with global sustainability initiatives and is crucial for the future of ophthalmic healthcare.