Reducing environmental impact and costs in dentistry: replacing theatre gowns with aprons to support NHS Net Zero goals

Abstract Background This sustainability and quality improvement project aimed to reduce the environmental burden and financial cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) used in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) department at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust. Specifically, it evaluated the impact of replacing single-use gowns with disposable aprons for dentoalveolar procedures under local anaesthetic (LA) carried out in theatres. Methods The AQUA Theatreman system was used to identify all LA dentoalveolar theatre procedures between 1 January and 31 December 2024. PPE use was calculated assuming three scrubbed staff per case. Carbon footprint data were taken from published estimates (905 g CO2e per gown; 65 g CO2e per apron). Cost information was obtained from the Trust. Following approval, a standard operating procedure allowing apron use was introduced in February 2025. Results A total of 613 LA cases were assessed, equating to 1839 gowns. This generated 1664 kg CO2e and cost £2979.18. Equivalent apron use would produce 358 kg CO2e and cost £36.78, saving 1306 kg CO2e and £2942.40. Patients also, anecdotally, reported reduced anxiety with apron use. Conclusion Replacing gowns with aprons substantially decreases environmental impact and financial costs while improving patient experience, supporting the NHS Net Zero agenda and offering a scalable sustainability intervention.