The continued use of metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) in respiratory care will have a potentially serious effect on global warming if production is not controlled, largely because these inhalers use potent green-house gas hydroflourocarbons (HFCs) as propellants. A cost-effective and safe alternative is available in the form of Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs), and we propose a programme to change prescribing practices such that DPIs are used in preference to HFC-driven inhalers where not clinically contra-indicated. 

Greenhouse Gas Accounting Sector Guidance for Pharmaceutical Products and Medical Devices

A consortium of major global companies has been working with the NHS SDU to agree standards for reporting of carbon equivalents emissions for the manufacture of drugs and medical devices. The report was launched on Friday 30th Nov 2012 at St Thomas' Hospital in London and is a real achievement, albeit only the beginning of a lot more work. 

CSH is delighted to announce that this year's NHS Forest Autumn Event is to be held on the 18th October at Todmorden Health Centre, Todmorden, West Yorkshire.

The day includes: The launch of the partnership between Incredible Edible Todmorden and Ambulance Services, a "creating a healthy route through the NHS Forest" workshop, an awards ceremony hosted by Pam Warhurst, (Chair of the Forestry Commission), and a guided walk to include the planting at Todmorden Healthcare Centre.

The Centre's Sustainable Respiratory Care group will lead research on why the UK continues to use inhalers with a much higher carbon footprint than other European countries.

Following the Montreal protocol banning the use of CFC gases in 1987, many countries moved directly to a new technology for inhalers based on Dried Powder (DPIs) while the UK still prescribes a majority of metered dose inhalers (MDIs) which use powerful greenhouse gases.