Promoting Nordic ‘Green Care Practices’

Climate change poses an urgent threat to human health, with thousands of deaths already attributed to extreme heat. In the Nordic countries, where per capita emissions are particularly high, healthcare accounts for 4.2-6.3% of emissions, highlighting the need for immediate action to reduce its climate impact. Evidence supporting sustainable climate solutions in healthcare is steadily growing. Greenhouse gas emissions in general practice can be broadly divided into those arising from clinical activities, such as patient examination, diagnosis, and treatment, and those from non-clinical activities, including clinic operations, energy use, and transportation by staff and patients. In this opinion paper, we discuss and advocate 'Green Care Practices' to minimize greenhouse gas emissions specifically related to clinical activities. We believe that Nordic general practitioners can adopt 'Green Care' to significantly reduce healthcare-related emissions while improving patient outcomes, enhancing efficiency, and promoting environmentally responsible healthcare. Strong primary healthcare, rooted in Nordic values, can support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by simultaneously mitigating climate change, reducing inequalities, fostering community stability, and promoting health and well-being. Thus, GPs can ensure sustainability for future generations.