Sustainability in pre-registration radiography curricula
This article examines the importance of embedding sustainability into pre-registration radiography and radiation therapy curricula. As healthcare services expand to meet the needs of growing and ageing populations, their environmental impact has increased significantly. Healthcare is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions and generates substantial waste through energy-intensive technologies and single-use materials. Radiology and radiation therapy are particularly resource-intensive due to equipment such as CT scanners, MRI systems, linear accelerators, data storage systems and clinical consumables. Research suggests that a large proportion of energy consumed by imaging equipment is non-productive, highlighting opportunities for more sustainable practices.
The authors propose that radiographers are well positioned to lead sustainability initiatives. However, evidence shows that although radiographers recognise the importance of environmental sustainability, gaps remain in knowledge, awareness and workplace procedures. Current UK Health and Care Professions Council standards do not explicitly require sustainability education, creating inconsistencies in curriculum development.
Drawing on guidance from the European Federation of Radiographer Societies and the UK Council of Deans of Health, the article proposes integrating sustainability throughout radiography education rather than treating it as a stand-alone topic. Suggested areas include planetary health, climate-related health impacts, sustainable clinical practice, energy management, waste reduction, greener procurement and advocacy.
The authors conclude that sustainability should become a core element of radiography training and professional identity. Achieving this requires curriculum redesign, interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable clinical role modelling to prepare future radiographers to support environmentally responsible healthcare and contribute to long-term healthcare sustainability goals.
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