Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist Launches to Drive Sustainable Surgical Practices
The Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists (AVA), together with a cross-specialism working group of veterinary professionals, have recently launched the Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist (VGTC), the first evidence-based framework designed to support environmentally sustainable practices in veterinary operating theatres.
The Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist
Download a PDF version of this resource here.
The Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist is a quality improvement tool that applies sustainability principles to veterinary surgery. It offers actionable, cost-effective strategies that improve patient care while reducing environmental impact.
Healthcare provision is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, and operating theatres are among the most resource-intensive environments. The Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist adapts and expands upon the Intercollegiate Green Theatre Checklist developed in human medicine, integrating veterinary-specific evidence to provide a practical tool for veterinary clinics.
The checklist is organised into four action-focused areas:
Preparing for surgery: reducing unnecessary interventions, rationalising single-use items, and sourcing renewable energy.
Using pharmaceuticals: decommissioning high-impact anaesthetic gases like nitrous oxide and desflurane, rational prescribing, and choosing lower-carbon drug options.
During surgery: adopting reusable equipment, minimising CO₂ insufflation, and prioritising low-carbon alternatives.
After surgery: repairing and maintaining equipment, improving sterilisation efficiency, and reducing waste streams
“Operating theatres are hotspots for carbon emissions, but simple, evidence-based changes can make a significant difference,” said Dr. Kate White, one of the lead authors. “The VGTC provides clinics with an immediate action plan while setting the foundation for longer-term transformation.”
The initiative, led by the AVA and supported by veterinary organisations including the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA), RCVS Knowledge, and Vet Sustain, has been developed with independent scientific oversight. It is also supported by an educational grant from Dechra. The checklist is freely available and designed to evolve as new research emerges. Veterinary professionals are encouraged to contribute feedback and collaborate on future updates via the AVA website (https://ava.eu.com).