Green Anesthesia: A Prescription for Sustainability in Washington Healthcare
Healthcare contributes nearly 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and operating rooms play an outsized role. Among the hidden culprits are inhaled anesthetics—often used for general anesthesia or sedation but potent contributors to global warming, with some gases thousands of times more impactful than carbon dioxide. Washington State's Senate Bill 5236 offers a critical opportunity to address this issue, making our healthcare system a leader in environmental stewardship.
Anesthesia is a crucial part of medical care, ensuring patients undergo surgeries and procedures safely. We cannot ignore the environmental impact of inhaled anesthetics, which can deplete the ozone layer and are potent greenhouse gasses that contribute to global warming. The good news is that lower-emissions anesthetic options exist, including more efficient use of inhaled anesthetics as well as lower impact intravenous medications. These strategies are supported by the American Society of Anesthesiology and the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. Senate Bill 5236 proposes a statewide approach to study and implement these proven strategies, ensuring safe and sustainable anesthesia care for all Washingtonians.
As a pediatric anesthesiologist, I’ve seen firsthand how evidence-based, lower-emission practices can transform care. Over the past eight years, my hospital has reduced its anesthetic emissions tenfold without compromising safety or patient outcomes. We’ve also saved money by improving efficiency—proof that what’s good for patients and the environment is also good for healthcare systems.
The stakes are high, and time is short. In our region, climate change is already harming vulnerable populations. Each summer, wildfire smoke fills our skies, endangering children with asthma, prematurity, and other health conditions. By passing this bill, Washington can take a meaningful step to protect public health and inspire others to follow suit.
Senate Bill 5236 isn’t just about reducing emissions; it’s about leadership. By aligning healthcare with sustainability, Washington can set a precedent that ripples across states and industries. Together, we have the power to lead by example, proving that sustainable healthcare isn’t just possible—it’s essential for safeguarding the health of our patients, our communities, and our planet.
Elizabeth E Hansen, MD PhD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington
Pediatric Anesthesiologist, Seattle Children’s Hospital
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and are not on behalf of the author's employer.
Biography
Elizabeth Hansen is a pediatric anesthesiologist passionate about sustainability in anesthesia and efforts to green the operating room as part of her commitment to environmental justice and equity.
