Greening the OR: Saving the Planet One Surgery at a Time the ESRA way

Welcome to the Future of Surgery—Sustainably!

Picture this: A bustling operating room (OR), the steady beeping of monitors, a team working seamlessly—and behind the scenes, a mountain of waste piling up. Every surgery, from the smallest procedure to the most complex operation, generates an astonishing amount of disposable material. But what if the OR could be just as efficient, just as safe, and a whole lot greener? Change is already happening, and you can be part of it.

The Problem: A Not-So-Sterile Relationship with the Environment

Healthcare, especially surgery, is one of the largest contributors to waste and energy consumption. Between single-use plastics, energy-hungry equipment, and high-volume waste, ORs have a serious carbon footprint. However, hospitals and medical teams worldwide are rethinking their approach and implementing practical changes that reduce waste without compromising patient care.

Simple Swaps, Big Impact: How the OR Can Go Green

«The gift boxes were made from recyclable materials, keeping things as eco-friendly as possible. Sustainable, thoughtful, and heartwarming—just the way we like it!»

One of the easiest ways to cut down on waste is by rethinking OR attire. The classic disposable surgical cap may be lightweight, but its environmental impact is heavy. Hospitals that have switched to reusable, washable surgical caps have seen significant reductions in waste and costs. Beyond the sustainability benefits, many healthcare workers enjoy personalizing their caps, making for a more comfortable and stylish work environment.

At the BARA (Belgian association of regional anesthesia) World Day on January 25th, we decided to shake things up when it came to speaker gifts! Instead of the usual chocolates or wine (which often travel long distances to get here), we went for something more local, meaningful, and downright adorable. 🎁✨

Our gifts? Handmade surgical caps, lovingly crafted by one of our own nurses at UZ Leuven Belgium! Not only are they stylish and practical, but the proceeds also went to a cat shelter for stray kittens—because who doesn’t love a win-win for both people and pets? 🐱💛

And to top it off, the gift boxes were made from recyclable materials, keeping things as eco-friendly as possible. Sustainable, thoughtful, and heartwarming—just the way we like it! ♻️💙

Energy consumption in the OR is another major challenge. ORs use up to 30% more energy than other hospital departments due to high-powered lighting, HVAC systems, and constant equipment use. Upgrading to LED surgical lighting, implementing smart climate control systems that adjust when rooms are not in use, and investing in energy-efficient anesthesia machines can make a dramatic difference. These changes not only reduce emissions but also lower operating costs in the long run.

When it comes to waste management, the OR has plenty of opportunities to improve. Thoughtful waste segregation programs, reprocessing single-use devices when possible, and integrating biodegradable surgical drapes and gowns all contribute to a more sustainable environment. Hospitals that introduce recycling initiatives for sterilized plastics or swap out unnecessary disposables for greener alternatives are leading the way in responsible medical waste handling.

Surgical procedures themselves also offer opportunities for sustainability, particularly in the realm of anesthesia. Anesthetic gases contribute significantly to hospital emissions, but hospitals can reduce their impact by opting for low-flow anesthesia techniques and environmentally friendly alternatives. Cutting down on desflurane use, favoring regional anesthesia when feasible (and that is our forte right? 😊), and using gas capture systems are all effective ways to minimize environmental harm without sacrificing patient safety.

«Not only are they stylish and practical, but the proceeds also went to a cat shelter for stray kittens—because who doesn’t love a win-win for both people and pets?»

Of course there are also controversies. The new guidelines published in RAPM has caused a stir.  ASRA Pain Medicine consensus practice infection control guidelines for regional anesthesia and pain medicine | Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine While some say it will increase waste by mandating probe covers for regional blocks, I simply feel like it is a step forward in patient safety and also an opportunity to talk with the industry.

Engaging the Team: Culture Change Starts with You!

Sustainability in the OR isn’t just about implementing new policies—it’s about changing the culture. A green OR is only possible when staff are engaged, informed, and motivated to participate. Hospitals that prioritize sustainability training and involve their teams in the process see the best results. Encouraging friendly competition, such as “green challenges” where departments find the most creative ways to reduce waste, can inspire innovation. Recognizing and rewarding sustainable efforts, whether through awards or public acknowledgment, helps reinforce the importance of these changes.

“CAPtivate the World! The Great ESRA Caps Challenge”

At the ESRA, we’re always up for a challenge—especially one that’s fun, creative, and helps a good cause. That’s why we’re launching the CAPS Challenge! We’re inviting everyone to design and make their own reusable cloth scrub cap, putting a stylish and sustainable twist on OR attire.

Want to join in? Here’s how it works: Your cap must be reusable and made of cloth, with a special bonus for those incorporating a regional anesthesia or ESRA theme. If you can create a “production line,” the profits should go to a good cause—whether it’s environmental aid, animal welfare, or another meaningful initiative. And the grand finale? At least one wearable cap must be presented at the ESRA conference, where the most creative and impactful designs will be judged.

Get ready to stitch, style, and showcase your eco-friendly flair. Let’s CAPtivate the world—one reusable cap at a time.
The prizes will be revealed at the ESRA conference in OSLO, stay tuned!

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Green OR

Sustainability in surgery isn’t just a passing trend—it’s the future. With a combination of innovative technology, policy updates, and everyday action, hospitals can significantly lower their environmental footprint while maintaining the highest standards of care. Switching to reusable attire, advocating for energy-efficient equipment, improving waste management, and engaging in sustainable anesthesia practices are all tangible steps that make a difference.

The green OR is no longer just an ideal—it’s a reality. And the best part? It doesn’t just help the planet; it makes workplaces more efficient, cost-effective, and even more enjoyable. So, let’s roll up our (reusable) sleeves and make surgery sustainable. Saving lives and saving the planet should always go hand in hand.