Table 1 The three pillars of Green Podiatry for clinicians. Assess carbon calculations – work (UK) https://www.gpcarbon.org/#/; and at home (Australia): https://www.wwf.org.au/get-involved/change-the-way-you-live/ecological-footprint-calculator#gs.u5agd1
From: Incorporating ‘Green Podiatry’ into your clinic, and into your life
Green Podiatry Pillars | ||
|---|---|---|
Exercise | Evidence | Everyday |
Feet as C-neutral transport Walk, ride, swim, run, dance ⦁ Good for people ⦁ Good for the planet ⦁ Evidence-based | Stop treatment which is not evidence-based eg Bespoke foot orthoses for paediatric flat feet | Supply chains are the major healthcare emission ⦁ Use less of everything ⦁ Reuse, repair ⦁ Recycle, reform (circular economy) ⦁ Buy from local sources ⦁ Adopt active travel for work (even once/week) |
Feet for exercise should be the primary podiatry focus for every patient Use wearable technology to measure physical activity General advice ⦁ Screen time ⦁ Diet ⦁ Sleep ⦁ Exercise ‘dosage’/age https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity | Use ‘choose wisely’ questions with patients: 1. Do I really need this test, treatment or procedure? 2. What are the risks? 3. Are there simpler, safer options? 4. What happens if I don't do anything? 5. What are the costs? https://www.choosingwisely.org.au/resources/consumers-and-carers/5questions Attend online webinars, reduce your travel emissions, especially long flights | Energy ⦁ electrify with renewables ⦁ e-records, telehealth Minimise single use items Collection bins: ⦁ Paper ⦁ Plastics ⦁ e-waste ⦁ Footwear to recycle |