Advancing sustainability in clinical anaesthetic practice
Propofol is one of the most widely used anaesthetics globally, yet its environmental impact is often overlooked. It contributes to aquatic toxicity, depends on resource-intensive soybean oil production, and generates significant clinical waste. Despite this, there is little routine monitoring or sustainable management of its use across health systems.
Research led by Pete Ford and Fellow Dr Nick Aveyard, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia, calls for systemic reform. The study recommends regular surveillance of propofol waste and environmental contamination, alongside more sustainable manufacturing, disposal practices, and improved clinical guidance.
Impact:
This work highlights the urgent need for more sustainable anaesthetic pathways and has the potential to drive safer water systems, reduce pharmaceutical pollution, and inform greener procurement policies — aligning with NHS Net Zero ambitions and broader environmental goals.
HRC Support:
- Provided academic leadership and subject matter expertise
- Enabled interdisciplinary research across health and environmental fields
- Funded key stages of research and impact evaluation
- Helped position the findings to influence NHS policy and clinical guidance
