The climate crisis is profoundly impacting our planet, and its effects on human health are becoming evident. Studies show that half of all infectious diseases are worsened by climate change, putting millions at risk. The alarming reality is that a 1°C increase in global temperature corresponds to a 5.5 per cent increase in mortality risk.
There is an innate link between the health of the planet and people, and the healthcare industry understands this nexus. The healthcare industry contributes to nearly 4.4 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Medical procedures produce substantial waste, much of it hazardous, and consumes considerable energy. To address this issue, healthcare leaders must consider a broad range of factors, including waste management, energy consumption, transportation, and shifting the focus towards preventive care.
India is working hard to protect the environment through national programs like clean air missions, urban greening, and afforestation. The healthcare sector also needs to look inward to assess and address its environmental impact. These efforts resulted in a 7.93 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 compared to 2019.
Technology aiding sustainability in radiology
Diagnostic imaging, particularly high-end modalities such as MRI and CT, is a hidden driver of healthcare’s environmental footprint due to its high energy consumption. However, there’s promising news for healthcare facilities looking to reduce their environmental footprint: energy-efficient medical equipment is becoming increasingly available. For example, newer MRI systems are designed to minimize energy waste, such as reducing helium cooling when not in use. In radiology, helium is as precious as gold. Superconducting coils within MRI machines require liquid helium to stay cool and generate stable magnetic fields. However, liquid helium, is a non-renewable and increasingly scarce resource. Newer technologies that use sealed systems, recycle helium, or reduce its need altogether offer a more sustainable alternative. Transitioning to such systems also improves operational stability and reduces dependency on global supply chains.
Another solution is digitalisation, that can significantly contribute to energy efficiency by streamlining processes. As mentioned by The Energy Consumption of Radiology study, in radiology, AI-powered image reconstruction can cut scan times and associated energy consumption by up to 60 per cent. Additionally, AI technologies minimize errors, reducing the need for repeat tests and further decreasing overall energy usage.
Just four MRI and three CT scanners are responsible for 4 per cent of a hospital’s total energy consumption. The total energy consumption of a CT scanner, which was used for an average of 7,904 patients a year, was similar to that of five four-person households. Similarly, an MRI scanner that was used for an average of 4,141 patients requires the same energy as 25.8 four-person households.
This energy demand must be addressed. Not by scaling back on diagnostic capabilities, but by embracing sustainable solutions that reduce waste, conserve resources, and optimise imaging infrastructure. By adopting greener and sustainable technologies and implementing simple practices like turning off equipment when not needed, healthcare facilities can make a significant impact on reducing their overall energy consumption.
Emphasising on preventive care
In India, the two-pronged challenge of expanding healthcare access and addressing environmental concerns is of paramount importance. Radiology sits at the intersection of both and hence, sustainable radiology is imperative.
Moreover, healthcare is a resource-intensive field, and the sicker patients are, the more resources they require. This results in a larger carbon footprint from travel, medication and treatment. Which is why in addition to reducing the environmental footprint of delivering healthcare, it is vital to invest in the kind of prevention and precision diagnosis that will help lower demands on healthcare organizations and reduce their environmental impact in the process.
Diagnostic imaging is key to early disease detection, which reduces the burden on tertiary care and improves patient outcomes. By investing in technologies and processes that reduce energy consumption, extend equipment lifecycles, and streamline diagnostics, India can build a radiology infrastructure that is both future-ready and environmentally responsible.
Newer technologies are paving the way for a future where radiology is diagnostically powerful and environmentally friendly. The focus on reducing energy consumption and preserving resources through innovative solutions will be key to meeting the country’s ambitious healthcare and sustainability goals. Green radiology is not only about reducing carbon footprints; it is about ensuring access, equity, and excellence in care for generations to come.