Sustainability in Dental Practice Using an Action Research Approach

Objectives: Dental practices use a more extensive variety of materials and instruments than many other health care services, and consume considerable amounts of energy, resulting in substantial environmental impact. We carried out an environmental Action Research project in one dental practice. This study used data from previous waste audits in the same practice and identified areas where behaviour change could potentially reduce the environmental impact of the practice. Staff then decided the actions they could take to increase environmental sustainability and improve efficiency.

Methods: Action Research is a mechanism that enables a range of possible interventions to be tested. Staff are involved at every stage so behaviour change in embedded by the end of the project. Initial audits identified areas of inefficiency and waste. An option appraisal suggested activities which staff could trial. Practice staff decided to target a reduction in tissue use, wasteful behaviour regarding high level of glove use, and the energy consumption of the building. The research team provided housekeeping ideas to reduce energy costs. After a two-month period, the waste audit was repeated. Utility bills and other running costs were assessed. A process audit tracked the practicality of the interventions proposed.

Results: The practice created two bins close to each other to ensure selective disposal of tissues and packaging. They reduced the amount of gloves they wore by changing the method of some procedures. The equipment supplier has been investigating sustainable alternatives to a range of items. Solar panels installed which have made savings on energy bills.

Conclusions: The option appraisal approach allowed staff to determine the feasibility of reducing certain materials from the clinical waste. Change has been embedded in the practice behaviour and staff adopted new ideas resulting in a reduction in the carbon footprint of the practice.