Sustainability in Veterinary Clinics Linked to Improved Staff Wellbeing and Climate Readiness
A new study, provisionally accepted by Frontiers in Veterinary Science, reveals that veterinary technicians, assistants, and students across the U.S. overwhelmingly support environmentally sustainable practices in clinical settings—and believe these initiatives could improve not just animal care, but also staff morale and retention.
The research surveyed a wide cross-section of veterinary support staff through AVMA-accredited technician programs, general practice clinics, and technician-focused social media groups.
Veterinary Staff Acknowledge Climate-Driven Health Challenges
The study confirmed what many in the profession have long suspected: climate change is affecting companion animal health, and veterinary support staff are paying attention.
Respondents strongly agreed that:
Climate change is real and relevant to animal health
Veterinary professionals have a role to play in climate-related health education
Existing training on climate health and sustainability is severely lacking
These findings suggest a growing interest among support staff to be more actively involved in sustainability efforts and climate education initiatives.
Green Practices = Better Workplaces
Beyond animal health, the study also found that eco-conscious practices—such as reducing medical waste, implementing energy-efficient systems, and using sustainable packaging—may be linked to higher staff engagement and satisfaction.
In a profession plagued by high turnover and burnout, the link between sustainability and staff wellbeing is noteworthy. Respondents viewed environmentally responsible workplaces as not only more ethical but also more empowering.
Clinics that support green initiatives were seen as “forward-thinking” and more likely to invest in both staff development and community impact.
Call to Integrate Climate Education into Vet Tech Training
The findings revealed a major educational gap: most respondents had received little to no formal training on the health impacts of climate change or how to apply sustainable practices in a veterinary setting.
To address this, the authors recommend:
Adding climate change modules to veterinary technician curricula
Offering continuing education (CE) for current support staff
Creating clinic-wide sustainability protocols involving all staff levels
The Takeaway
Veterinary support teams are eager to help lead the charge on climate readiness—and they recognize the link between sustainability and long-term wellbeing, both for animals and the humans who care for them.
By investing in sustainable clinic operations and climate literacy, veterinary practices can build more resilient teamswhile preparing for the health impacts of a changing world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is climate change relevant to veterinary staff?
Veterinary support professionals see the real-world impacts of extreme heat, poor air quality, and changing parasite patterns on pets and livestock. Understanding these links helps them provide better care and client education.
What sustainable practices can veterinary clinics implement?
Examples include:
Reducing single-use plastics
Installing LED lighting
Using digital records instead of paper
Participating in pharmaceutical recycling programs
Sourcing local, eco-friendly products
Do veterinary technicians support climate change education?
Yes. The study found overwhelming support for adding climate and sustainability education to both technician training programs and clinic CE offerings.
How can sustainability improve veterinary staff wellbeing?
Sustainable practices can:
Create a sense of purpose and alignment with values
Encourage teamwork and staff empowerment
Improve workplace reputation and culture
Reduce burnout by fostering proactive, mission-driven environments
What’s next for climate education in vet med?
The study recommends developing formal curricula, certification programs, and clinic-wide initiatives that involve all members of the veterinary team—especially veterinary technicians and assistants.
