[In the face of climate change, is a relevant and sustainable eco-pathology in France possible?].

INTRODUCTION

The healthcare sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 8 % of annual French emissions. Eco-design in healthcare, which provides care with equal quality, safety, and relevance but with a lower environmental impact, is therefore a crucial lever for sustainable medical practice. This article explores the application of eco-design in anatomical and cytopathological practices (ACP) in France, in response to the country's decarbonization goals.

OBJECTIVES

After demonstrating that decarbonization is possible through the chosen eco-design of care and practices in ACP, we describe the barriers to these changes and the potential real-world solutions.

DISCUSSION

We examine the challenges and solutions for integrating eco-design principles into daily ACP practice, highlighting the importance of the relevance of medical procedures to reduce unnecessary practices. We discuss the technical and human barriers in ACP, as well as the solutions: raising awareness among laboratory personnel, industrial stakeholders, research and innovation, the involvement of scientific societies, and initiatives from the collective for Ecological Transformation in ACP (TEAP). Finally, we propose financial incentives to make eco-friendly practices economically viable in ACP.

CONCLUSION

Eco-design in ACP practices is essential to address the climate challenge and ensure the sustainability of the healthcare system.