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Sustainability and spinal cord injury: attending to climate change and disability

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2019 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-019-0232-6 · Published: October 7, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

The UN has recognized that people with disabilities are especially vulnerable to climate change. Spinal cord injury (SCI) can cause unique challenges, such as mobility issues and sensory dysfunction, making individuals more susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Virtual healthcare, such as using mobile apps for home evaluations and telehealth for follow-up care, can reduce the need for travel, saving time and resources while lowering carbon emissions. This approach ensures that clients with SCI receive appropriate equipment and recommendations. The author raises questions about the use of electronic devices and disposable supplies in SCI care. They question whether these items are always necessary and suggests exploring biodegradable alternatives to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
Not specified
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Mobile applications can be used to create home floor plans, allowing clinicians to order durable medical equipment without physically visiting the home.
  • 2
    Telehealth interventions, including video chats and phone calls, can improve the functional status and quality of life for individuals with SCI who live far from specialized care centers.
  • 3
    There is a need to re-evaluate the prescription of electronic devices and disposable supplies used in SCI care to minimize waste and promote more sustainable practices.

Research Summary

This editorial highlights the vulnerability of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) to the effects of climate change and emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainability into SCI care practices. The piece advocates for the use of virtual healthcare and telehealth to reduce travel, lower carbon emissions, and provide specialized care to individuals with SCI, especially those in remote locations. The editorial calls for a re-evaluation of the use of electronic devices and disposable supplies in SCI care to minimize waste and explore more sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable options.

Practical Implications

Policy and Advocacy

Advocate for policies that address the needs of people with disabilities, particularly those with SCI, in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Clinical Practice

Incorporate sustainable practices into clinical care, such as using telehealth, re-evaluating the necessity of electronic devices and disposable supplies, and exploring biodegradable alternatives.

Research and Innovation

Conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of telehealth interventions and develop sustainable and biodegradable products for use in SCI care.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The editorial is primarily a perspective piece and does not present original research data.
  • 2
    The specific challenges and solutions related to sustainability in SCI care may vary depending on geographic location and resource availability.
  • 3
    Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact of sustainable practices on the quality of life for individuals with SCI.

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