But how green is it actually? Calculating the environmental footprint of Kidney care environmental optimisations within haemodialysis

Environmental optimizations in kidney care have been analysed as part of the EU co-funded KitNewCare project.

Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) using Ecoinvent database and OpenLCA software quantified optimizing resource use (e.g. dialysis machines, reducing flow rates, incremental dialysis), energy-saving measures (e.g. solar energy, efficient lighting), and travel reduction (e.g. home dialysis, telemedicine). Efforts in waste management involve transitioning clinical waste to domestic waste streams, recycling, and pyrolysis. Water-saving practices include reclaiming water for non-potable uses and efficient treatment systems.

Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) quantified these interventions, revealing significant environmental and social savings, particularly in reducing travel and resource use. Travel optimizations yielded the most significant CO2e savings, while incremental dialysis also conserved water and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Social impact assessments highlighted reduced forced labour risks associated with streamlined production processes.

The study underlines the importance of prioritizing impactful interventions to minimize the environmental footprint of CKD care while maintaining clinical efficacy. Challenges include adapting strategies to local contexts, ensuring economic feasibility, and integrating renewable energy sources based on regional energy mixes.