The Carbon Footprint of Residency Interview Travel

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Over the last decade, medical student residency applicants have shown a substantial increase in the number of interviews attended, which is associated with a significant increase in travel. The carbon footprint associated with residency interviews has not been well documented prior to this investigation, and is a critical issue related to climate health. Objective The purpose of this study is to document the carbon footprint associated with travel to residency interviews of the applicants from a single institution. Methods Graduating medical students from the University of Michigan Medical School were surveyed in 2020 to gather information regarding travel related to residency interviews. A validated carbon emissions calculator was used to determine the associated carbon footprint. Results Response rate was 103 of 174 (59%). Average interviews per student across all specialties was 14.39 interviews per student. The overall class average for total carbon footprint per student was calculated as 3.07 metric tons CO2, making the class average carbon footprint per interview 0.21 metric tons CO2. If we extrapolate the results of our study to all residents, the resulting CO2 emissions approach 51 665 metric tons CO2 per year, which is equivalent to the amount of CO2 produced by 11 162 passenger cars in 1 year. Conclusions Medical education leaders could help reduce the carbon footprint by encouraging a reduction in number of in-person interviews attended by applicants.