TSANZ position statement on ‘green inhalers’ 2024 – Resource

TSANZ has published a position statement advocating for the use of DPI or soft-mist inhalers, as ‘green inhalers’. It is a good resource for deep understanding of the carbon footprint of inhalers, current practices/context and their impact. Some facts include:
– Over 8 millions of pMDIs were dispensed in Australia in 2022
– Percentage of inhaler doses delivered by pMDI exceeds 80% in Australia, United States and United Kingdom
– One person changing from MDI to DPI preventer is similar to changing from a petrol to a hybrid car, or going from meat-eater to vegetarian, over a full year.
– Research and development is also underway to commercialise MDIs with low-emission propellants, with carbon footprint almost 10 times smaller
– Two thirds of inhaler related greenhouse gas emissions are related to high reliever use, which could be decreased by better preventer adherence and asthma control.

The statement includes strategies to mitigate the impact, including Prescribing strategies (including the use of AIR therapy) and Recycling and reuse.