Beta— in development
Phasing-out Desflurane
Remove desflurane from operating rooms. Safe, effective, and less-costly alternatives exist including sevoflurane or total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA).
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Impact Summary
Mitigation
Scope 1
🏥Anaesthesia
Climate Impact
539 tCO₂e
Absolute GHG Reduction
Local Impact56,909 tCO₂e/year
National Impact153,403 tCO₂e/year
Organizational Value
ROIImmediate
Financial ImplicationsLow Saving ($0-$25,000)
Implementation Status
Widespread
Impact Level
The Problem
Desflurane has the highest global warming potential among anesthetic gases at 2500x more than carbon dioxide. Using just one bottle of desflurane is equivalent to burning 440kg of coal. Among other inhaled anesthetics, desflurane also has the lowest clinical potential, requiring higher concentrations to achieve the same effect.
The Solution
Remove desflurane from operating rooms. Safe, effective, and less-costly alternatives exist including sevoflurane or total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA).
Emissions Reduction Potential
Local Impact
56,909 tCO₂e
National Impact
153,403 tCO₂e
Co-Benefits
Quick Easy Win | Cost savings | Improved Indoor Air Quality | No Loss of Care Quality | Sustainability leadership | Reduced Waste Management
Implementation Considerations
Barriers
Potential clinician resistance and perceived clinical preference| Training gaps| Procurement inertia
Enablers
Leadership support | Education & training | Policy alignment | Cost incentives | Peer champions | Desflurane cassette removal
Case Studies
Implementation Experts
Financial Impact
Financial Implications
Low Saving ($0-$25,000)
Solution Savings
CA$30,510
Methodology
First Year
GHG Reduction (Annual)
539 tCO₂e
Absolute GHG Reduction
Local Impact
56,909 tCO₂e
National Impact
153,403 tCO₂e
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