Climate change is one of the main threats to health in the 21st century, especially affecting those with respiratory diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this context, the Ministry of Health of Spain launched an initiative to promote the use of inhalers with lower environmental impact, highlighting the importance of sustainability in the healthcare system without compromising patient safety.
The guide presented by the Secretary of State for Health, Javier Padilla, and the Health and Climate Change Manager, Héctor Tejero, encourages the prescription of dry powder inhalers and soft mist inhalers where possible. These devices have a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional pressurized inhalers, whose use accounts for about 10% of the pharmaceutical sector’s environmental impact.
However, authorities emphasize that any changes must be made without affecting disease control. Patient safety and treatment adherence are the priority, so the transition to more sustainable options should be made at appropriate times, such as with new diagnoses or when modifying treatment for clinical reasons.
A more eco-friendly healthcare system
The Ministry of Health highlights the need to move towards a National Health System with a lower environmental impact. Currently, medications account for approximately 30% of the carbon footprint of the healthcare sector, reinforcing the urgency of adopting more sustainable strategies.
However, Padilla emphasizes that sustainability must go hand in hand with the quality of care. “It is essential to avoid both overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis, ensuring that treatments are suitable for each patient,” he said. He also stressed the importance of therapeutic education, as proper inhaler use not only improves its effectiveness but also optimizes resources and reduces environmental impact.
Recycling and responsible use of inhalers
Another key point in the sustainability strategy is the proper management of used inhalers. Patients are advised to take their spent or expired devices to recycling points in pharmacies, within the SIGRE collection system.
The transition to inhalers with a lower carbon footprint is an important step within a broader approach to reduce environmental impact in the healthcare sector. However, authorities insist that any changes must be individualized and agreed upon with the patient, always prioritizing their well-being and proper disease control.
What are inhalers used for and how do they impact the environment?
Inhalers are used to administer medications to the lungs but can contribute to climate change.
How do they impact the environment?
- Pressurized inhalers contain propellant gases that contribute to global warming, while metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) have a significant carbon footprint.
- The fluorinated gases in pressurized inhalers are potent greenhouse gases.
Can their impact be reduced?
- Use dry powder inhalers (DPI) or propellant-free inhalers (NPI).
- Dispose of inhalers at pharmacies, where they can be incinerated or recycled.
- Opt for inhalers that are more environmentally friendly.
How can doctors help?
- Ensure accurate diagnoses before prescribing.
- Help patients optimize disease control.
- Choose inhalers other than pMDIs.
What are dry powder inhalers?
- Dry powder inhalers are breath-controlled and do not contain any propellants.
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