Calculator uses date entry from a practice's utility records.
The first-ever carbon calculator for veterinary practices could be launched as soon as Spring 2022, the BVA has announced.
The calculator is being developed by social enterprise Vet Sustain in collaboration with the BVNA, BVA, BSAVA and SPVS to provide veterinary practice teams with the ability to work out their carbon emissions.
It comes amid mounting concerns over the environment and pressing government and corporate targets for reducing carbon emissions.
“BVA is committed to supporting the veterinary profession to be more sustainable and is proud to be supporting this new resource," commented Justine Shotton, president of the BVA. "The carbon calculator will help veterinary teams to assess their carbon footprint and enable them to identify the ways in which they can practically reduce their impact on the environment."
First developed by Investors in the Environment, the calculator wil use data entry from a practice's utility records. It is hoped that the tool will be accessible via the Vet Sustain website by Spring 2022.
"This tool will add to the suite of currently available tools such as the Greener Veterinary Practice Checklist and the Investors in the Environment accreditation scheme, which can help veterinary workplaces to operate more sustainably," commented BVA presidnet, Justine Shotton.
"We strongly encourage members of the profession to engage with these tools and look forward to the new carbon calculator.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
