The transformation in climate has the most devastating impact on a modern man’s life. Human activities, including the combustion of carbon-based fuels and disforestation, have drastically escalated gas emissions, driving global warming and climate change. This has caused extreme weather conditions, sea-level rise and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity. Pollution from industrial processes, plastic waste and improper waste disposal contaminates air, water and soil which not only injure our health but also influences wildlife, ecosystems, and the wide-ranging functioning of the planet. Agricultural runoff refers to water from rainfall or irrigation, also contributes to pollution. It flows over agricultural fields and carries with it substances from the soil which can lead to various forms of pollution that negatively affects ecosystems, human health and water quality.
Disforestation, habitat destruction and overexploitation of natural resources have led to a rapid decline in biodiversity. The loss of species diversity threatens ecosystems, disrupts ecological balance and reduces resilience to environmental changes. Resource depletion poses another serious threat to human survival. Unsustainable consumption habits and the overutilization of natural resources including water, minerals, and hydrocarbons have caused significant depletion and degradation of these essential resources.
Dentists are primarily responsible for maintaining and improving oral health. Although the environmental effect of dentistry may seem very tiny compared to other industries, the choices and actions of dental professionals can substantially contribute to environmental conservation and sustainability. This shift in their paradigm towards sustainability has sparked greater interest in alternative energy sources and eco-friendly practices. Adopting alternative energy resources in dentistry helps reduce the carbon footprint, promotes environmental stewardship and leads to cost savings. As technology advances, more innovative solutions will likely become available, further enhancing the sustainability of dental practices.
Dental clinics consume massive amount of light which can be reduced by maximizing the use of natural light decreasing the need for artificial lighting. Installing solar panels on the rooftops or adjacent areas of dental clinics can generate electricity, reducing the reliance on conventional grid electricity. It will minimize electricity costs, lower carbon footprint and provide renewable energy for energizing equipment and lighting.
Wind power can be a valuable energy source providing a sustainable alternative to traditional electricity. By installing small wind turbines, clinics can harness wind energy to generate clean, renewable electricity on-site. This approach not only reduces dependency on the grid but also lowers operational costs and minimizes carbon footprints. Small-scale wind systems can be integrated seamlessly, supplying power for lighting, electro-dental equipment and heating or cooling systems. Ideal for rural or coastal areas with consistent wind, wind power enhances energy resilience and sustainability in healthcare facilities, aligning with sustainable initiatives and contributing to a healthier environment. Geothermal energy is another alternate source of energy that offers an efficient and eco-friendly solution for dental clinics, utilizing the Earth’s natural heat for heating, cooling, and water heating. By installing heat pumps, clinics can tap into stable underground temperatures, providing consistent and cost-effective climate control. This system reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, contributing to sustainable operations. Geothermal Heat Pumps are the most practical option for a dental clinic. This is different from a large-scale geothermal power plant, which is not feasible for small facilities like clinics.
Energy conservation through the use of energy-efficient devices and equipment greatly pays to sustainable oral healthcare. Switching to fluorescent lighting has the potential to reduce energy expenditure and carbon emissions by one-quarter. Savings will be even greater if LED bulbs are used instead of traditional incandescent bulbs in the clinics. LED curing lights exemplify how adopting advanced technology can significantly lower the energy consumption of dental devices. Installing dental chairs that are designed to be more ergonomically friendly can reduce the amount of energy needed to move patients from a seated to a reclined position. Use of High-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems reduce energy consumption and manage humidity levels to prevent dryness or excessive moisture in the premises. Its filtration systems reduce allergens and pollutants which is highly beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues. Dental air compressor systems play a foundational role in the operations of a dental clinic. Modern compressors, manufactured by leading brands, are designed with energy efficiency in mind and opting for these models can reduce energy consumption and operational costs.
For sterilization, dentists generally use autoclaves which is one of the most energy-intensive piece of devices in the practice and consume similar amounts of electricity as an air conditioning unit. Ozone sterilization offers a modern alternative to traditional autoclaving using ozone gas to eliminate microorganisms. Unlike autoclaving, which relies on high temperature and pressure to sterilize, ozone sterilization uses the oxidizing power of ozone to penetrate and destroy pathogens at a molecular level, even in cooler environments. This method is highly effective for heat-sensitive materials and can sterilize complex shapes and surfaces without causing thermal damage. It is eco-friendly, as it leaves no toxic residues and requires less energy compared to the steam and pressure needed in autoclaving.
Dentists in Pakistan, however, lack awareness about alternative energy sources and sustainable practices. This gap hinders the adoption of eco-friendly solutions which could reduce clinic operating costs and environmental impact. Educating dentists about these options can promote sustainable practices, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to affordable healthcare. Government initiatives and industry awareness programs are essential to bridge this knowledge gap and encourage and facilitate the dental fraternity to embrace renewable energy solutions for a more sustainable future.
The writer is a Dean Faculty of Dentistry, at Baqai Medical University