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Sustainability Speaker Series: Pathway to a Sustainable Veterinary Clinic
February 19, 2025
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) has teamed up with the Canadian Animal Health Surveillance System (CAHSS) to support a webinar series with Veterinary Sustainability Alliance (VSA). A comprehensive overview of the why and how of improving veterinary clinic sustainability with be shared.
This series is an exciting lead up the CVMA Convention in Victoria, British Columbia and this year’s National Issues Forum, Pathway to a Sustainable Veterinary Profession, on Thursday, June 26, 2025!
These webinars will be recorded and available for viewing on the CVMA YouTube channel.
Webinar #1 – RACE Approved
Let’s talk environmental sustainability and veterinary medicine
Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. EST
Speakers: Drs. Colleen Duncan and Will Sander
Overview:
In this webinar, an overview of the relevance of environmental sustainability in veterinary medicine will be provided. The talk will focus on the conundrum that the animal populations that veterinarians seek to help can be greatly influenced by the climate crisis, yet our veterinary systems generate considerable greenhouse gas emissions when we deliver care, thus contributing to the rising climate crisis. A framework for veterinary clinics to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will be provided.
Webinar #2 – pending RACE approval
Pathway to a Sustainable Clinic: Part 1 – Core
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. EST
Speakers: Drs. Katie Clow and Diccon Westworth
Overview:
In this webinar, participants will be provided with a detailed overview of the first component of enhancing veterinary clinic environmental sustainability – building an empowered team with clear goals and a path to success. The presenters will share their personal experiences in building green teams and generating momentum. A hands-on tool for conducting a clinic carbon audit will be demonstrated.
Webinar #3 – pending RACE approval
Pathway to a Sustainable Clinic: Part 2 – Clinic
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. EST
Speakers: Drs. Diccon Westworth and Colleen Duncan
Overview:
In this webinar, participants will be provided with a detailed overview of clinical sustainability practices in the areas of energy, water, waste, procurement, and transportation. Practical examples for both physical and behavioural change will be made. Changes with the highest impact and lowest effort will be emphasized.
Webinar #4 – pending RACE approval
Pathway to a Sustainable Clinic: Part 3 - Community
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. EST
Speakers: Drs. Will Sanders and Katie Clow
Overview:
In the final webinar of this series, participants will learn about efforts to advance veterinary sustainability within the wider community. The importance of supporting access to care, sharing stories, building a community, and connecting with nature will all be discussed.