Case studies
Major change often calls for innovation. Jo Walsh and Lisa Vipond of the Open Skies Cornwall project provide a clear and exciting example of doing things differently – scoping the use of drones to transport samples to laboratories in rural and remote areas. Meanwhile, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals have introduced an audit scheme to develop and maintain their laboratory services’ sustainability – Dr Rob Shorten shares their experience.Wider perspectives
Of course pathology is but one small part of this huge and complex picture. Our final pair of themed articles consider wider perspectives in sustainability beyond pathology – Dr Shireen Kassam, Consultant Haematologist and founder of Plant-Based Health Professionals UK, explains the benefits of plant-based diets for the planet and individuals alike, while Professor Sergei Shubin, Professor in Human Geography and Migration, considers lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic regarding planning for uncertainty, mental health and collective action as applied to the climate emergency.
I will sign off by returning full circle to Dr Claire Gordon’s reminder that it is in the nature of a wicked problem that there is no one solution. As she explains, it may be difficult to see how tiny changes on our part – preventing an unnecessary test request here, rationalising transport arrangements there – can make a difference. Pathology alone, of course, cannot solve the climate crisis, but that is the very essence of a wicked problem. Instead, we must all aim for a series of small wins that add up over time – and that can make a difference.
Professor Angharad Davies
Clinical Director of Publishing and Engagement
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