Sustainability in general dental practice
Sustainability is concerned with the sensible and responsible use of natural resources, to avoid depletion beyond the planet’s ability to regenerate/replenish itself. Maintaining this ecological balance often uses the reduce, reuse, recycle model.
Sustainability can also have a powerful influence on patient choices. 67% of consumers are reported make decisions based on environmental factors (Global consumer trends survey 2022), therefore informing patients of sustainable practice innovations will build trust and make dental business brands increasingly popular.
While sustainability is not specifically mentioned in the GDC standards, many Denplan teams are already using a variety of methods to increase awareness of the environmental impact of dental care amongst staff, patients, other professionals and local communities, including:1-5
- Developing a practice sustainability policy
- Using online resources and educational posters to communicate the ‘green’ vision to patients and staff
- Measuring and evaluating sustainability improvements
- Incorporating sustainability education in staff induction and training processes
- Calculating and disseminating information on the environmental (and financial) benefits of sustainable practice.