EcoRad: sustainable radiology and the ecology of economics

Abstract

This review explores the dual meaning of the prefix “eco”—ecology and economics—and the transformative idea of synthesizing the two into a single “eco” framework. This framework gives rise to EcoRad, which blends economic and ecologic principles to optimize radiology practice. EcoRad strives to achieve the triple bottom line by approaching economic challenges from a planetary health perspective and by using economic approaches to enhance planetary health. In effect, this expands the traditional focus on financial performance to also include social and environmental impact. With EcoRad as a guide, radiology departments are called upon to consider 5 actions that can help overcome barriers to sustainable radiology: adopt sustainable procurement and maintenance, integrate green information technology (IT) and operational efficiencies, advocate for payment models that reward green radiology, champion green budgeting, and involve patients, industry, third-party payors, and policymakers in sustainability.