Decarbonizing energy use and enhancing efficiency can rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in veterinary practice.

Decarbonize veterinary practice through renewable energy and efficiency strategies.

This article addresses the significant environmental impact of veterinary practice through greenhouse gas emissions from energy consumption, client travel, staff commuting, and supply chain operations. The authors present a comprehensive framework for decarbonizing veterinary hospitals through six evidence-based strategies: transitioning to 100% renewable energy sources, electrifying clinical equipment and infrastructure, reducing transport-related emissions, enhancing overall energy efficiency, implementing on-site renewable generation and storage systems, and minimizing procurement-related emissions. The article emphasizes that these interventions offer dual benefits—reducing environmental impact while improving operational resilience and financial sustainability. Implementation of these strategies aligns veterinary medicine with One Health principles, demonstrating the profession's commitment to protecting animal, human, and environmental health. The authors argue that rapid adoption of these scalable interventions is both scientifically justified and economically viable, positioning veterinary practices as leaders in sustainable healthcare delivery.

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