This study by Forbes McGain and colleagues explores the environmental impact of treating patients with septic shock in intensive care units (ICUs) in the United States and Australia using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies. The focus is on energy consumption from heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and lighting, along with the use of consumables and waste generation associated with patient care.

Key Findings:

• Energy Consumption: The U.S. ICU used significantly more energy per patient than the Australian ICU, largely due to higher requirements for HVAC in response to differing local climates.
• Carbon Footprint: The carbon footprint was substantially higher in the U.S. ICU, with daily emissions averaging 178 kg CO2-equivalents per patient, compared to 88 kg CO2-equivalents in the Australian ICU.
• Contributors to Carbon Footprint: The majority of carbon emissions stemmed from energy use, particularly from HVAC systems. Consumables contributed less significantly to the overall environmental impact.
• Opportunities for Reduction: The study highlights significant opportunities for reducing the carbon footprint of ICUs by improving energy efficiency and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.

Implications for Policy and Practice:

• The findings suggest that considerable environmental gains can be achieved by focusing on the energy efficiency of hospital buildings and operations.
• The research underscores the importance of incorporating sustainability into the design and operation of healthcare facilities to mitigate their environmental impact.