The equipment we utilise, the transportation we rely on, and the day-to-day operations of our practices all contribute to the carbon emissions associated with dentistry[1]. Large equipment integral to dentistry – such as x-ray machines and autoclaves – have a high energy consumption and therefore impact on your overall footprint. But the equipment is vital to the practice, so what is the solution?
Another heavy factor to consider, is transportation. Studies show that the average dental practice emits a significant amount of carbon dioxide annually, with travel making up the largest portion[2]. This environmental impact underscores the need for a proactive approach to reducing our carbon footprint.
To address these challenges, you can implement a range of strategies to reduce your dental practice’s contribution to carbon emissions. Investing in energy-efficient equipment where appropriate, and eco-friendly lighting, for instance, not only reduces energy consumption but also leads to long-term cost savings.
Embracing renewable energy sources and exploring sustainable transportation options for our staff further aligns our practices with eco-conscious principles.
To tackle this problem, we propose a shift towards digital administration in dental practices. Systems and software like Dentally and Software of Excellence offer efficient and secure alternatives to seamlessly take your practice digital.
As well as this, make sure you have clear recycling practices for the paper products you can’t go without, especially as paper is still a more sustainable choice than plastic.
Additionally, we can explore sustainable sourcing options for the paper you do use. Choosing recycled or bamboo-based materials supports responsible forestry practices and helps alleviate the pressure on natural forests.
Share
Related Articles
)
Oral Health Awards 2026
The Association of Dental Education in Europe, the European Dental Students’ Association, and Henry Schein grant the 2026 Oral Health Professional Educators’ Awards.
)
The Key To Staff Retention
Struggling with staff retention? mydentist’s chief clinical officer, Nyree Whitley, gives her advice on how you can attract and keep staff in your dental practice by perfecting your basics.
)
Reducing Endodontic Chair Time
Explore how dental professionals can reduce endodontic chair time without compromising care.
)
SafeMatrix Bands
Transform your day-to-day restorative workflow with SafeMatrix – the single-use matrix bands you can rely on.
)
Dental Disposables Buying Guide
Discover how choosing dental disposables from Henry Schein can support safer, smarter everyday care, from surgery set-up and treatment to changeover and restocking.
)
AI In Dentistry
Discover how AI is shaping dentistry, and how Henry Schein can support responsible, human-centred adoption in your practice. Featuring insights from the Trusted Partner Report.
)
Quick Endo Guide
Explore the key steps in the endodontic workflow with our snapshot overview, designed to help dental professionals work efficiently, confidently, and consistently at every stage of treatment.
)
Ultimate Endo Guide
Ensure your endodontic treatments are well rounded and reliable with our complete step-by-step guide of the endodontic workflow, created to help you achieve the best outcomes for your patients.
)
Safeguarding Smiles
Protect your patients’ oral health today while better positioning them for the future, with minimally invasive preventive products like Curodont® Repair from vVARDIS.
)
Mastering Molars
Explore why molar root canals are more complex, from curved canals and MB2 detection to irrigation, instrumentation, obturation, and restoration.
)
Mark Topley Sustainability Q&A
Go Practice Green founder, Mark Topley, discusses the importance of sustainable dentistry, and how making small changes in your practice can have a big impact on the planet.
)
Wellbeing In Dentistry
Learn how prioritising wellbeing in dentistry can drive better outcomes, with insights from Chief Dental Officer, Jason Wong, and the founders of BREATHE – the dental wellbeing platform.
