Rim Wally

Document Type

Research Project

Publication Date

Fall 9-25-2025

Abstract

The dental sector is a significant carbon emitter globally, with each clinic emitting the same emissions as multiple cars do over a year, and each visit contributing tangible environmental impacts. The biggest emitters are patient and staff travel, clinic utilities, and supply chain activities like single-use plastics. Despite this extensive contribution, there is still low dental awareness. That is why this policy briefing includes a framework for integrating oral health with environmental sustainability aims, foregrounding multi-stakeholder engagement and using the UK as a case study. Climate literacy and dental education reform are the most significant and recommended basis for starting such a radical change. The article suggests embedding climate change into national education systems at dental schools as a formal education, particularly in the Global South, where countries are vulnerable to climate disruption. This will eventually prepare leaders who proactively recognize the size of the crisis. The suggested strategies also include non-formal educational initiatives, issuing green certifications, technology utilization, and regulatory reform. By overcoming key challenges such as cost and outdated policy, the dental profession can greatly reduce its carbon footprint while still maintaining high standards of patient care. The guidelines take best-practice models to build a map to sustainable dentistry.

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