Decarbonizing urology: Carbon footprint assessment of a minimally invasive vasectomy in a French private hospital.

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to assess the carbon footprint of a complete care pathway for minimally invasive vasectomy and to identify the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions, with the aim of proposing concrete strategies for reduction.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Carbon emissions were calculated using the Bilan Carbone® methodology (ADEME), incorporating the following components: energy consumption, procurement, patient and staff transportation, food services, infrastructure and capital equipment, fugitive emissions, freight transport and waste management. Each stage of the care pathway - clinical consultations, surgical procedure, and postoperative semen analysis - was modeled. Emissions were expressed in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kgCO2eq), based on emission factors from the Base Empreinte® and the Carebone® tool.

RESULTS

The mean carbon footprint of a vasectomy care pathway was estimated at 73.42kgCO2eq. Patient transportation accounted for the largest share of emissions (69.7%), followed by medical consumables (21.5%). The remaining categories, energy use, waste management, food, and staff transport, contributed less than 10% of total emissions combined.

CONCLUSION

Minimally invasive vasectomy is associated with a relatively low carbon footprint, primarily attributable to patient transportation and disposable medical supplies. Streamlining the care pathway - by performing the surgery in a procedure room, promoting teleconsultation, utilizing reusable equipment, and eliminating non-mandatory steps - could further reduce its environmental impact.