Climate change is an era-defining health concern, with healthcare emissions paradoxically compounding negative impacts. The NHS produces 5% of the UK’s carbon footprint, with operating theatres a recognised carbon hotspot. 

NHS England intends to become Net Zero by 2045, with various governing institutions of specialist practice producing guidance and practical tools to facilitate this transition.

We aimed to comprehensively assess the environmental impact of baseline surgical practice, and subsequently measure impacts of sustainable change with the intention of moving closer to this national goal at a local level.