In the space of the last 30 years, the UK has become 0.9°C warmer and experienced 6% more rainfall.[1] While these changes may not seem drastic, even minor climate change is a serious problem. Indeed, we are already experiencing higher incidences of flash flooding and heatwaves that have melted roads and caused rail lines to buckle.[2]
November saw the UK host the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) which put the sharp reality of the growing climate change problem into perspective. Some of the key goals of the conference included how to secure global net-zero before the mid-century, adapting to the changing climate, and how to mobilise finance to better approach the climate change challenge. However, one key overriding message was that we all need to work together in order to help minimise climate change as much as possible.[3]
So, how can dental professionals take steps to help limit climate change?
Reduce your fossil fuel consumption
One good starting point to reduce fossil fuel consumption is to explore alternative energies to power your home and your practice. In the last few years, industries such as offshore wind power and solar energy have become much more sophisticated and accessible, and switching to providers that utilise these alternate power sources can make a huge difference.
Have you considered investing in an electric vehicle, or even downsizing to a smaller car that has lower emissions? Reports show that car emissions remain a leading cause of the rising CO2 levels that are affecting global temperatures.[4] If possible, it’s also a good idea to explore public transport options and encourage your team to do the same. Just a couple of people making the switch to public transport can have a hugely beneficial effect, and you can even incentivise the switch to encourage people to take a greener path.
Another possibility to explore is reducing your energy consumption in practice. Invest in systems that have eco-friendly features, cut down electricity use where possible – each little change you make will add up, and you’d be surprised how much these measures can reduce fossil fuel consumption and save you money in a relatively short amount of time.
Preserving the environment
As you’re already aware, dental practices produce a variety of waste streams, many of which can have a negative impact on the environment if they are disposed of incorrectly.
For example, dental amalgam has been found to present certain challenges to marine life when it enters the ocean. This is because the mercury in the material converts to monomethyl mercy when in aquatic habitats. This then bioaccumulates within sea creatures, potentially causing them harm or even death and making them toxic to consume.[5]
In light of this, it’s clear that certain measures such as amalgam separators and proper waste disposal in practice are a key way of helping to preserve the environment. Initial Medical is committed to helping dental professionals to remain eco-friendly, and supplies an innovative PureMotion ® amalgam separator that effectively removes up to 99.8% of all amalgam from wastewater streams in your practice. Plus, with a tailored waste disposal service that is completely bespoke to your needs, Initial Medical can help every dental practice to do their bit in tackling climate change.
For further information please visit www.initial.co.uk/medical or Tel: 0870 850 4045
About Initial Medical Waste
Initial Medical set the standard in healthcare and infectious waste management in the UK, providing a reliable, effective and fully compliant service built around customer needs and delivered by our highly trained local teams. We are ISO 9001:2015 accredited, with technology fully integrated into our operations, providing full traceability of service delivery, electronic waste documentation and the best customer experience possible. We also offer innovative healthcare waste management services and infection control products, to help break the chain of transmission and prevent cross contamination.
Initial Medical are a company with a ‘World Class’ Health and Safety record, and ISO 45001:2018 accreditation. We are also accredited to ISO 14001:2015 environmental standards, and pride
ourselves on our sustainable approach with a focus on delivering eco-friendly products and operational solutions.
For further information please visit www.initial.co.uk/medical or Tel: 0870 850 4045
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[1] BBC News. UK Already Undergoing Disruptive Climate Change. Link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-57988023 [Last accessed September 21].
[2] BBC News. UK Already Undergoing Disruptive Climate Change. Link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-57988023 [Last accessed September 21].
[3] UN Climate Change conference UK 2021. COP26 Goals. Link: https://ukcop26.org/cop26-goals/ [Last accessed September 21].
[4] BBC. How Our Daily Travel Harms The Planet. Link: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200317-climate-change-cut-carbon-emissions-from-your-commute [Last accessed September 21].
[5] Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. The Mercury Cycle. Link: https://www.whoi.edu/oceanus/feature/how-does-toxic-mercury-get-into-fish/ [Last accessed September 21].
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