Simulation clinic waste audit assessment and recommendations at the University of Washington School of Dentistry.

Objective: Dentistry produces waste contributing to climate change and adverse health outcomes, thus reducing waste is essential; however, there has been minimal emphasis on sustainability or climate action in dentistry. Waste audits quantify the type and amount of waste produced and may inform waste reduction strategies. We conducted a waste audit to identify areas of potential waste reduction and recommend interventions to reduce waste. Methods: In this cross‐sectional study, we conducted a waste audit of garbage produced during a typical 4‐hour pre‐clinical restorative dentistry simulation exercise. The sample was composed of 72 second‐year dental students. This exercise is part of a standard curriculum with a uniform format regarding supplies used and participants. Potentially infectious materials were not used during this exercise. Results: In total, 26.6 kg of waste was discarded. Plastic was the largest contributor by mass (57.5%), followed by paper barriers (19.6%), then impression materials (6.5%). We found 894 gloves and 70 masks discarded. Conclusions: Based on these findings, we categorized waste reduction opportunities into policy changes, purchasing sustainable materials, and increasing awareness through education. Specific suggested actions include: relaxing glove and gown requirements during laboratory simulations; replacing single use items with more sustainable options; increasing use of intraoral scanners; and posting informational signage with examples of what can be recycled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]