To evaluate the carbon footprints of different training modalities in intensive care and advocate for digital learning, emphasizing its environmental significance.
Approach:
Key Findings:
Online and VR training produce approximately ten times fewer emissions than in-person courses, highlighting the potential for significant environmental benefits.
Median COâ‚‚ emissions were 43 kg for both online and VR training, compared to 429 kg for in-person attendance, indicating a stark contrast in environmental impact.
The environmental savings are most significant when digital learning replaces travel-heavy in-person formats, underscoring the need for thoughtful implementation.
Interpretation:
The findings highlight the substantial environmental impact of in-person training in intensive care and suggest that digital formats can significantly reduce carbon footprints, while further research is needed to assess their efficacy.
Limitations:
The efficacy of digital formats compared to in-person training for all competencies remains uncertain, and potential biases in participant selection should be considered.
Online platforms may not replicate certain hands-on skills and team-based learning experiences, which are critical in intensive care.
Conclusion:
While the environmental costs of in-person training are significant, a balanced approach is needed to determine which components of education require physical presence and how to effectively combine digital and in-person formats, ensuring educational efficacy is not compromised.
