Journal Articles

Polypharmacy: Institutional approaches to Support Patients, Systems and the Climate

Polypharmacy: Institutional approaches to Support Patients, Systems and the Climate

January 6, 2026

As polypharmacy continues to rise in Canada, its impact on patient care and health care systems becomes more significant. This article explores the consequences of polypharmacy, including increased patient risks, environmental footprint, financial strain and added workload for staff. It also highlights effective strategies for mitigating polypharmacy, such as deprescribing, non-pharmacological interventions, medication stewardship programs

The low carbon fruit tree for primary care

The low carbon fruit tree for primary care

May 29, 2025

This narrative review discusses 19 initiatives that can be implemented into primary care practices to reduce GHG emissions and financial costs.

Climate-resilient acute care clinical operations: A framework that informs how operations within acute care build climate-resilient health systems

Climate-resilient acute care clinical operations: A framework that informs how operations within acute care build climate-resilient health systems

April 28, 2025

New framework guides climate-resilient acute care in Canada, with Alberta’s experience as a case study to support adaptation and continuous learning.

A kilo for a tonne: the unmet need to address underuse in health care in a climate crisis

A kilo for a tonne: the unmet need to address underuse in health care in a climate crisis

April 1, 2025

Addressing underuse in health care is key to sustainability—early, high-value care can cut carbon emissions and improve outcomes for patients and the planet.

Journey of a pill

Journey of a pill

April 1, 2025

This study depicts the estimated journey of a clonazepam pill’s production and distribution, with the prescription being filled in Vancouver, BC.

The environmental elephant in the office: medications

The environmental elephant in the office: medications

April 1, 2025

Primary care plays an integral role in the creation of a low-carbon health system, and the environmental consequences involved in medications is a prime example.

Why can’t we die at home? Expanding home care could reduce the financial and environmental cost of dying in hospital

Why can’t we die at home? Expanding home care could reduce the financial and environmental cost of dying in hospital

November 19, 2024

Where would you like to be when you die? Seven out of eight people in Canada would choose to pass away at home where they and their loved ones would be more comfortable. And yet 56 per cent of people in Canada actually die in hospitals. If dying at home could be made more feasible and well resourced,

Getting serious about sustainability in dentistry

October 23, 2024

This paper explores how dentists can mitigate environmental impact through advocacy and actions, both professionally and personally. Read Article Here

The end-of-life care, environment and health system ‘polycrisis’ needs a new approach

The end-of-life care, environment and health system ‘polycrisis’ needs a new approach

August 12, 2024

Canada faces a “polycrisis” of interconnected economic, environmental, and social challenges. Addressing these requires coordinated policies that consider overlapping risks. Read Article Here

Bringing forests to the city: 10 ways planting trees improves health in urban centres

Bringing forests to the city: 10 ways planting trees improves health in urban centres

July 21, 2024

The article highlights the numerous health and environmental benefits of planting trees in urban areas. Trees help improve air quality, reduce heat island effects, and provide mental health benefits by creating greener, more serene environments. Read Article Here

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