Sustainable ultrasound
Future directions As healthcare systems continue to decarbonise and embrace circular economy principles, ultrasound stands at the forefront of innovation in sustainable imaging. Looking ahead, the next generation of ultrasound practice will be defined not only by advances in clinical capability, but also by technologies and partnerships that actively reduce environmental impact. Emerging solutions such as biodegradable
probe covers and pads could dramatically cut the volume of single-use plastics currently destined for clinical waste streams. In parallel, the migration to cloud-based data storage offers a route to lower energy use and improved efficiency, as centralised cloud infrastructure is increasingly powered by renewable energy sources — a clear improvement over traditional, energy-intensive on-premise servers. Artificial intelligence is also set to play a key role: AI-driven scan protocols can help clinicians optimise image capture, reducing unnecessary cine loops and storage demands, while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. Perhaps most transformative of all could
be cross-industry collaboration to design truly circular supply chains – where consumables are produced with recycled materials, returned for recovery, or re-manufactured for reuse. This shift aligns with NHS and HSE goals for a Net Zero supply chain, while supporting global sustainability frameworks such as the EU CSRD and UN SDGs. Ultimately, sustainable ultrasound extends
beyond emission reduction. It represents a reimagining of how imaging services are delivered – resilient, cost-effective, data-driven, and aligned with patient-centred models of care. By embedding sustainability at every stage, from design to delivery, ultrasound can become both a clinical and environmental benchmark for the future of healthcare.
Conclusion Ultrasound already represents one of the most sustainable imaging modalities, but it can go further. Evidence shows the greatest gains will come from: l Extending equipment lifecycles through refurbishment and modular upgrades.
l Reducing waste and consumables, especially gel bottles and gloves.
l Leveraging digital collaboration to avoid unnecessary travel.
In doing so, ultrasound can become a flagship for sustainable imaging, embodying the NHS’ goals of prevention, digital innovation, and community-based care. By showcasing these strategies at BMUS, the
imaging community can demonstrate leadership in addressing climate change, while improving efficiency and outcomes for patients.
CSJ
References 1. World Health Organisation (WHO) Health is the Argument for climate change action Pg 57 58595-who-cop29-special-report_layout_9web. pdf
2.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact- sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality- and-health
3. Health Care Without Harm (2019). Health care’s climate footprint: How the health sector contributes to the global climate crisis and opportunities for action (p.22). https://
noharm-global.org/documents/health-care- climate-footprint-report
4. Harmonizing Diagnostic Ultrasound Practice with Environmental Sustainability: A Life Cycle Assessment of Diagnostic Ultrasound in a Single Adult University Hospital, p4. https://doi. org/10.1016/j.jacr.2025.09.031
5 Based on the average weight re-use percentage per system for Philips MR, CT, Mobile C-arm and Image-guided therapy refurbished systems in 2024. Results may vary based on the amount, type, mix and age of returned systems.
6. Average cost savings compared to the purchase price of a similar new Philips system. Pricing depends on modality, product type, configuration, and other factors.
7. Reducing couch roll in the interests of sustainability https://networks.
sustainablehealthcare.org.uk/sites/default/ files/2024-11/PosterPresentations%20-%20 Reducing%20couch%20roll%20%283%29.pdf
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www.clinicalservicesjournal.com I December 2025 About the author
Chris Taylor is the UK & Ireland Sustainability Lead, at Philips Healthcare, and has over 20 years’ experience in the medical imaging and healthcare technology sector. He is passionate about driving the healthcare industry’s transition to Net Zero, embedding sustainability into procurement, operations, and clinical practice. He also holds several industry leadership positions, including: Convener, AXREM Sustainability Special Focus Group – supporting the NHS Net Zero agenda and advancing sustainable medical imaging and radiotherapy supply in the UK; Vice-Chair, HealthTech Ireland Sustainability Working Group – supporting Irish healthcare suppliers on sustainable procurement, circularity, biodiversity and carbon reduction; Advisory Board Member for DECHI (Digitally Enabled Circular Healthcare Innovation); BSi Commitee Member; and DHSC ‘Design for Life’ Industry spokesperson (AXREM). Recognition of his contributions includes winning the inaugural AXREM Sustainability Award (2021) for leadership in decarbonising healthcare.
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