Ten propositions to reduce the carbon footprint of clinical research

Abstract

The healthcare sector emits 8% of France’s greenhouse gases. Working groups within healthcare establishments and learned societies are proposing actions to reduce emissions in the field of care, but clinical research studies also contribute to the healthcare system’s carbon footprint. Their greenhouse gas emissions are only just beginning to be calculated, and the measures to be put in place imagined. In this article, we present ten proposals for reducing the environmental impact of clinical research. The most significant measures for reducing greenhouse gaz emissions are intensive digitalization of clinical research and almost total elimination of research team and patients’transportation. The contribution of artificial intelligence is certain, but at what price. These measures must be adopted by the pharmaceutical industry and research funders. They also require an adjustment of current regulations.