Sustainability awareness among European dry eye disease specialists
Francesc March de Ribot, Jose M Benitez-del-Castillo, Gerd Geerling, Elisabeth M Messmer, Christophe BaudouinIntroduction
Healthcare contributes 4–6% of global CO2 emissions due to energy use, pharmaceuticals, and waste. Ophthalmology plays a significant role, particularly in managing dry eye disease (DED), which is a leading cause of eye care visits. DED affects up to 50% of people worldwide, with its incidence increasing with age, climate-related factors, and screen use. This study aims to gather insights from DED experts on their opinions toward sustainability in ophthalmic care.
Methods
An online survey was distributed to attendees of the European Dry Eye Society conference, running from June to September 2024. The survey consisted of 10 questions related to sustainability practices in DED management. Data on demographics were collected and analyzed using percentages.
Results
Of the 372 respondents, 83.7% expressed concerns about global warming, and 78.5% believed that ophthalmic care produces excessive waste. Most respondents (79.7%) considered that single-use preservative-free vials generate significantly more waste than multidose alternatives. Additionally, 89.2% supported recycling methods. Ophthalmologists also recognized the rising impact of digital eye strain and saw potential in using apps to manage DED more sustainably.
Conclusions
The survey highlights a strong consensus among DED experts about the need for more sustainable practices in ophthalmology. Key findings include concerns about waste, especially from single-use vials, and the potential for digital solutions to improve sustainability in DED management. The results suggest an opportunity to integrate environmentally friendly actions into ophthalmic care.