Letters to the editor

No Absolution For Sinners

I was disappointed to read the piece “A sinner’s prayer” in the letters section of the Summer ANZCA Bulletin.

The publication of this submission was problematic on many levels. Firstly, it propagates the myth that there is still debate about the legitimacy of climate change. The science of climate change is established and validated with endorsement from the leading governing structures in our society from the United Nations and World Health Organization to the Climate Council of Australia, to the British Journal of Anaesthesia and ANZCA.

Continuing to entertain the notion that the existence of climate change and the contribution of anaesthetic gases is up for debate is analogous to entertaining debate about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

What about free speech I hear the denialist shout? There is no obligation for respectable publications to misrepresent the factually inaccurate view of the minority as valid counter opinion. When 9/10 weather presenters say “it is raining outside” a responsible editor doesn’t give credence to the one presenter insisting it is 30 degrees and sunny − they open the door and check the evidence. It is this false representation of counter culture opinions as though they have equal validity which undermines the sincere efforts of those tirelessly working through the Green Theatres Groups and ANZCA Environmental Sustainability Network to make environmental sustainability the cultural norm in our health care facilities.

Publishing submissions which muddy the waters damage the clear messaging required to influence and empower the ambivalent but well-meaning practitioner and give fuel to the small but vocal and destructive minority. Sustainability education and messaging needs to be clear, concise and consistent to be effective and meaningful. Secondly, the assertion that the decision to use propofol over desflurane is some sort of ethical quagmire.

There is no evidence base to suggest that total intravenous anaesthesia is somehow an inferior anaesthetic choice. If the author of “A sinner’s prayer” is unable to deliver an effective and safe TIVA anaesthetic there are many options available to develop this component of their practice. Alternatively, sevoflurane offers a more environmentally sustainable option. If you are looking to care for your fellow man I suggest you educate yourself on the growing health impacts of climate change.

Dr Alexandra Reid FANZCA Staff Specialist Anaesthetist Green Theatres Group, Royal Adelaide Hospital

EDITOR’S RESPONSE

Environmental sustainability is important to ANZCA (see www.anzca.edu.au/about-us/our-culture/environmentalsustainability) and it is a core focus of our strategic plan. We have played a leading role in establishing the Environmental Sustainability Network, have an environmental sustainability library guide and we have publicly stated our commitment to minimising the impact of climate change. The Bulletin letters section is a space in which fellows can put forward their views and opinions, even when they are contrary to those of the college.