Experiences of Implementing Environmentally Sustainable Measures in Private Physiotherapy Practice Across Canada

Abstract Purpose: To explore how private physiotherapy practices across Canada promote and demonstrate environmentally sustainable practices and measures and what motivates owners, managers, and staff to do so. Method: This was a qualitative study using interpretive description methodology. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 individuals working in private physiotherapy practices that self-identified as taking steps toward environmental sustainability. Nine participants were owners of a clinic or solo practice, two were employed in clinics as physiotherapists, and one was a clinic coordinator. We used constant comparative techniques and thematic analysis. Results: We identified five themes reflecting participants’ experiences and perceptions of environmentally sustainable practices: enacting personal and shared commitments to protect the environment, navigating policies and regulations, considering finances as part of decisions around sustainable practices, implementing sustainable measures within the clinic or practice, and sharing knowledge to advance environmentally sustainable physiotherapy. Conclusions: This research offers important examples and insights related to environmentally sustainable measures that have been implemented in private clinics and practices in Canada. As demonstrated by the experiences of participants, concrete steps can make clinics more sustainable. Environmental responsibility aligns with the commitments of the profession to promote health and well-being at individual and societal levels.