Attitudes and Perceptions of Canadian Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgeons and Residents on Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Objective Healthcare systems, specifically operating rooms, significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing operating room environmental sustainability requires understanding current practices, opinions, and barriers. This is the first study assessing the attitudes and perceptions of otolaryngologists on environmental sustainability. Study Design Cross‐sectional virtual survey. Setting Email survey to active members of the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Methods A 23‐question survey was developed in REDCap. The questions focused on four themes: (1) demographics, (2) attitudes and beliefs, (3) institutional practices, and (4) education. A combination of multiple choice, Likert‐scale, and open‐ended questions were employed. Results Response rate was 11% (n = 80/699). Most respondents strongly believed in climate change (86%). Only 20% strongly agree that operating rooms contribute to the climate crisis. Most agree environmental sustainability is very important at home (62%) and in their community (64%), only 46% said it was very important in the operating room. Barriers to environmental sustainability were incentives (68%), hospital supports (60%), information/knowledge (59%), cost (58%), and time (50%). Of those involved in residency programs, 89% (n = 49/55) reported there was no education on environmental sustainability or they were unsure if there was. Conclusion Canadian otolaryngologists strongly believe in climate change, but there is more ambivalence regarding operating rooms as a significant contributor. There is a need for further education and a systemic reduction of barriers to facilitate eco‐action in otolaryngology operating rooms.

Barriers and facilitators to sustainable operating theatres: a systematic review using the Theoretical Domains Framework

“…One study (5%) mentioned barriers relating to incentives. This survey found that the most common barriers to environmental sustainability in OTs were ‘lack of incentives’ 69 .…”

“…Often, studies did not differentiate between roles when reporting determinants of behaviour. Many studies did not report the specific role or specialty of the participants; of those that did, eight involved anaesthetists and associated healthcare workers 60 , 62 , 66 , 67 , 73 , 75 , 78 , 80 , and one study for each of the specialties of cataract related healthcare 63 , obstetrics and gynaecology 77 , ear nose and throat 69 , and ophthalmology 64 . A further study reported the department of each participant, with 11 specialties included, such as vascular surgery, trauma and orthopaedics, and plastic surgery 70 .…”

Structural analysis of Green Human Resource Management and Green Transformational Leadership on Environmental Behaviors and Green Innovation Performance with the Mediating Role of Environmental Knowledge

“…). These leaders possess an unwavering commitment to sustainability and rmly believe in promoting ecofriendly practices (Hathi et al, 2023).…”

Exploring the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Hospital Staff and Patients on Environmental Sustainability in the Operating Room: A Quality Improvement Survey Study. (Preprint)

“…Despite some progress in related studies, the area remains relatively unexplored. A study conducted by the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at LHSC found that Canadian otolaryngologists strongly believe in climate change, but there was some ambivalence surrounding ORs being a strong contributor [10]. Other studies found varied barriers, such as lack of support from leadership and inadequate knowledge or education [11,12].…”