Connecting the dots between a sustainability agenda, infection prevention and antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

Australia’s healthcare sector accounts for up to 7% of Australia’s carbon footprint. However, the sector has broader direct and indirect environmental impacts. There’s a balance to be struck between reducing environmental impact and optimising infection prevention and control strategies, which include minimising antimicrobial resistance. The discussion covers health service demand, low carbon care, patient-centred treatment, safe medication disposal and single use medical supplies, as well as wastewater with Australian-based examples. Barriers to implementation of a sustainability agenda include an already stretched health system and a disconnect between community health, hospital systems and processes and those who have the capital, capability and resources to drive these efforts. This article explores the environmental impacts of the healthcare system and current strategies to improve sustainability through the lens of infection prevention. This includes the potential unintended negative consequences for the prevention and management of antimicrobial resistance.