Sustainability Perspectives on Radiotherapy Practice

Abstract

Introduction

The reality of rising greenhouse gas emissions and global temperatures underscores the urgency of transitioning to a net-zero energy system. Modern radiotherapy contributes to the total healthcare domain emissions. As the global incidence of cancer rises, expanding treatment capabilities is critical. However, sustainability in high-emission healthcare disciplines is equally paramount. This paper explores the academic knowledge base and practical strategies for understanding and managing emission contributions to align with sustainability goals. The European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and climate disclosure frameworks in Australia and New Zealand require certain organisations, including large hospitals and radiotherapy networks, to report their direct and indirect emissions.

Methods

Climate disclosure frameworks emphasise transparency and resilience to climate risks, supported by methodologies such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and ISO 14064. The study narratively examines existing literature and practical solutions through engaged scholarship and provides insights into modelling radiotherapy emissions guided by the principles of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

Results

Radiotherapy emissions are a small but significant share of healthcare emissions, with indirect emissions dominating. They are estimated at 6.75 Mt. CO_2e, accounting for approximately 0.3% of global healthcare emissions. While sustainable construction and innovative technologies reduce upstream impacts, downstream greenhouse gas reductions remain limited despite travel minimisation efforts.

Conclusions

By advancing sustainability in radiotherapy, this work contributes to the broader healthcare sector's efforts to mitigate climate impacts and aligns with international climate commitments.