Environmental Sustainability

Introduction

Radiology departments contribute nearly 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making them a significant yet often overlooked driver of the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. These interconnected environmental threats are increasingly endangering both local ecosystems and global human health. As the demand for medical imaging continues to rise, it is more crucial than ever for radiologists to champion environmentally sustainable practices. From simple actions like powering down unused equipment to broader system-level initiatives—such as implementing clinical decision-making tools and encouraging evidence-based guidelines to eliminate low-value imaging—there are meaningful opportunities to reduce our environmental footprint.

The BCRS and its Sustainability Working Group are committed to leading this transformation and helping radiology play a key role in building a healthier, more sustainable future.