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UCL Study Reveals Dental Sedation's Huge Carbon Footprint

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

University College London (UCL) researchers estimate nitrous oxide used for sedation in UK dentistry has a substantial environmental impact, averaging 28.6 kg CO2e per sedation.
The footprint equals a 72.8-mile car journey, with some services producing up to 1,849 kg CO2e weekly.
Inhalation sedation shows a 92% success rate, but usage and wastage vary.
Researchers urge reducing flow rates, auditing gas use, and considering alternatives to nitrous oxide.

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Story summary

University College London (UCL) researchers estimate nitrous oxide used for sedation in UK dentistry has a substantial environmental impact, averaging 28.6 kg CO2e per sedation.
The footprint equals a 72.8-mile car journey, with some services producing up to 1,849 kg CO2e weekly.
Inhalation sedation shows a 92% success rate, but usage and wastage vary.
Researchers urge reducing flow rates, auditing gas use, and considering alternatives to nitrous oxide.