Assessing the carbon footprint of the initial 24 h post-severe trauma admission in a French ICU: a pilot study

Background As healthcare emerges as the world’s fifth-largest carbon emitter, intensive care units (ICUs) represent environmental challenges due to their high resource consumption and energy demands. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is necessary to limit global warming. This study aimed to quantify the carbon footprint of ICU care during the first 24 h of admission for trauma patients. By establishing a baseline “carbon cost” for ICU trauma care, we seek to provide a framework for future studies assessing sustainable care strategies. Methods We conducted a prospective observational pilot study in a French trauma ICU, categorizing patients into three standardized care pathways. The GHG emissions have been quantified using a hybrid life cycle assessment approach across various scope categories. Statistical analyses included correlation testing between the different groups and severity scores. Results Total carbon footprints ranged from 86 to 248 kg of CO 2 e per patient over the first 24 h. Medications, medical devices, and transportation were the primary contributors, while energy and waste represented a smaller portion of the emissions. There was a significant positive correlation between emissions and severity scores. Conclusion The carbon footprint of ICU care of a trauma patient during the first 24 h is significant, and it is necessary to conduct assessments in each ICU to identify levers for environmental improvement. The carbon cost should be integrated into the standardization of care and research protocols to enable more sustainable care practices.