Five ways to improve energy efficiency in the dental profession

Rising gas and electricity bills, coupled with the UK’s rather ambitious targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent by 2050 (based on levels in 1990), are forcing those in even the smallest dental practices to think more and more about their usage, and wastage.

Many will be wondering how they can possibly reduce their energy consumption, given the amount of high tech equipment that is in constant use. But actually, there are plenty of ways that those working in the dental profession can do their bit to cut their carbon footprint and reduce their own costs in the meantime.

Read on for five tips on how the dental profession can boost its energy efficiency from the inside out.

1) Go digital

Digital dental X-rays have transformed the way that dentistry works. It has made dental treatment safer and more convenient for patients, and it has also made the industry more environmentally friendly. By converting to digital X-rays, many practices have taken the first important step towards being greener and more high tech. Conventional X-rays, amongst other issues, also carry the risks associated with disposing of toxic materials and lead foils. Going digital helps to tackle energy efficiency on two levels; not only does it cut down on your costs, it reduces the amount of non-recyclable materials that you produce.