Digital Health Care Services' Environmental Footprint Investigation
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, digital twins (DTs) are making a significant impact. These computer models, which mimic properties and behaviors of physical devices, are now being used to represent individuals in the healthcare sector [1]. However, as with any technological advancement, the environmental impact of digital twins is a growing concern.
Dr. Cristina Richie, a Lecturer in Ethics of Technology at Edinburgh University Future's Institute, Department of Philosophy, emphasizes the need for sustainability principles in digital twin technology as awareness of carbon emissions grows [2].
The primary environmental cost of digital twins arises from their computational energy consumption and data processing requirements. The energy used to power data centers and infrastructure can indirectly lead to carbon emissions [2][5]. Yet, digital twins also offer potential for energy savings and carbon emissions reductions. By optimizing healthcare operations, equipment usage, and personalized treatment plans, digital twins can improve efficiency and reduce waste [3].
For instance, hospital digital twins can optimize space use, reduce congestion, and better manage equipment, contributing to lower energy consumption and reduced carbon footprints of healthcare facilities [3]. Simulation technologies associated with digital twins have demonstrated reductions in energy use by up to 25%, material waste by 17%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 25% in industrial contexts [4].
Digital twins also enable personalized medicine that reduces unnecessary treatments, diagnostics, and hospital stays, indirectly reducing resource use and emissions compared to more generalized healthcare approaches [2].
Comparatively, traditional healthcare technologies and procedures have a more varied carbon footprint. For example, CT scans and MRI are energy-intensive, while surgical procedures have material and waste impacts [1]. In contrast, digital twins have a high direct carbon footprint due to their computational energy usage. However, their ability to optimize healthcare delivery, reduce waste, and improve energy efficiency offers a promising net positive impact on carbon emissions [2][3][4][5].
It's crucial to note that the total environmental impact of digital twins depends heavily on factors such as energy source sustainability, data center efficiency, and the scope of digital twin deployment in healthcare settings [2][3][4][5].
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References:
[1] Digital twins in healthcare: A review of current developments and future challenges. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666756821000195
[2] Richie, C. (2021). Digital twins in healthcare: Ethical considerations and principles for sustainability. Journal of Medical Ethics, 47(9), 647-651.
[3] The impact of digital twins on healthcare facilities management. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349433572_The_Impact_of_Digital_Twins_on_Healthcare_Facilities_Management
[4] The potential environmental benefits of digital twin technology. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666756821000206
[5] The carbon footprint of digital twins: A case study of telemedicine in Sweden. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666756821000183
