‹ Go back
Insights from the field: Entonox talks from our network
We’ve launched the Ending Entonox Waste project, a new initiative to support NHS trusts in tackling avoidable greenhouse gas emissions from Entonox use.
Entonox, a 50:50 mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen, is widely used in maternity care but is a significant and often overlooked contributor to NHS emissions. Research shows that a typical 4-hour labour using Entonox is equivalent to driving 1,500km in a petrol car.
Early evidence suggests that most Entonox emissions may not be from clinical use, but from gas leaks in outdated manifold systems. Similar issues identified in anaesthetics have already prompted changes in hospital systems and procurement practices.
The Ending Entonox Waste project aims to collect case studies, share practical solutions, and raise awareness across the NHS. We will highlight effective interventions including:
- Identifying and fixing leaks
- Switching to bedside canisters
- Using catalytic ‘cracking’ technologies
- Ensuring access to effective alternative analgesics
We are building an open library of case studies and will soon be hosting a webinar to connect teams working on Entonox waste.
Our long-term goal is to support national guidance and action on Entonox waste, helping move the NHS closer to its net zero goals.
