The carbon footprint of a haemodialysis unit in Morocco.

INTRODUCTION Climate changes have a major influence on the overall health of the population. They are directly linked to the emissions of the greenhouse gases (GHG). The extend of GHG emission relation to haemodialysis has been measured by several studies all over the world. Up to this date, no similar study has been conducted in Morocco. Therefore, the objective of our study is to conduct a review of the GHG emissions and to evaluate its specificities in order to establish a targeted action plan to reduce the ecological impact of haemodialysis in Morocco. METHODS To do this, we sought the help of a certified audit firm. Carbon Footprint tool (L'outil Bilan Carbon), established in Morocco in collaboration with Mohammed VI Foundation for the protection of environment, was used to analyse the results collected for the year 2019. FINDINGS Our unit (conventional haemodialysis 3x4 hours, 424 m2 , 24 generators, 80 patients, 29 nursing staff) generates 408.98 Tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year (t CO₂-eq peryear) or 5.11 TeqCO2 per patient per year. The largest contributors to GHG emissions are: Electrical energy consumption (28%), equipment purchase and services (27%) and staff and patients travel (22%). DISCUSSION The use of renewable energy for the operation of haemodialysis centers can be a realistic solution to reduce the ecological impact of this type of healthcare in Morocco. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.