Clinical trials, a crucial component of healthcare, contribute significantly to global carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions, accounting for over 4% of such emissions worldwide. Despite this, the spotlight on emissions reductions has predominantly focused on sectors such as transportation and energy, even though the pharmaceutical industry is reported to be more emission-intensive than the automotive industry. Existing guidelines, such as the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s Carbon Reduction Guidelines, do outline strategies for reducing the carbon footprint of clinical trials, but these are not currently widely adopted in their planning and execution. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize sustainability in clinical research to not only reduce the carbon footprint of clinical trials, but also ensure they can be conducted with efficient resource utilization well into the future.

This article will explore sustainability in dermatology clinical research, in particular, discussing potential strategies currently being explored.  

 

Growing Importance of Pursuing Sustainability in Dermatology Clinical Research

The field of dermatology clinical research, like many other sectors, is increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability in its practices. A recent literature review conducted in 2020, specifically targeting sustainability in the field of dermatology, revealed a growing interest in environmental sustainability. Consistent with other findings, the review identified a lack of comprehensive adoption and implementation of sustainability initiatives in dermatology clinical research. They also revealed opportunities for carbon-reducing actions in key areas such as transport, waste management, and resource procurement. The growing interest in sustainability within dermatology paves the way for innovative practices that respect the environment, the rights and wellbeing of patients, and the efficient use of resources. This will require ongoing engagement between sponsors, patients, and clinical research organizations (CROs), as well as evidence-based guidance for strategies to improve sustainability in dermatology clinical research. 

 

Strategy 1. Adopting Decentralized Trials in Dermatology Clinical Research

The traditional method of conducting clinical trials requires patients to visit investigator sites in person for all physician interactions, presenting several challenges such as inconvenient travel arrangements, scheduling conflicts, and potential exposure to infectious diseases. However, decentralized trials leverage a variety of digital tools and technologies to enable the completion of core trial activities remotely, offering a more sustainable strategy for conducting dermatology clinical research. The field of dermatology is especially well-suited to virtual clinical trials because it consists of many indications where patients are otherwise generally healthy, such as with acne or psoriasis. However, even in the case of other disease indications, such as burns and diabetic foot ulcers, certain assessments could be completed virtually with the use of electronic patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and clinician-reported outcomes (ClinROs). In combination with electronic consenting tools and telemedicine platforms, this digital approach ensures the burden on both the patient and the site is significantly reduced, enhancing sustainability in dermatology clinical research. 

 

Strategy 2. Implementing Eco-Friendly Materials for Dermatology Treatments

The skin, as the body’s largest epithelial surface, is susceptible to over 3000 types of diseases and conditions, necessitating a wide array of treatments, many of which involve dermal and transdermal routes for administering drugs using patches or microneedles. While these materials offer certain advantages, such as the ability to tailor their mechanical and chemical properties, they also present potential environmental harm. Synthetic materials are typically not biodegradable, and their production and disposal can generate high amounts of waste. This has led to a shift in focus towards the use of more eco-friendly materials, such as natural polymers, in the manufacturing of these tools. These polymers are derived from non-edible and readily available plant sources as well as agro-food and industrial by-products, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials without compromising the treatment effectiveness of patches. Examples of such materials include cellulose, alginate, and gelatin, all of which still offer controlled delivery of drugs, rapid therapeutic effects, enhanced diffusivity, and minimal side effects. Although the technology for creating these eco-friendly patches is still in the early stages, this strategy represents a significant step toward sustainability in dermatology clinical research. 

 

Strategy 3. Optimizing Resource-Intensive Processes in Dermatology Clinical Research

Taking measures to optimize administration and workflow processes can lead to a significant reduction in resource consumption and improved sustainability in dermatology clinical research. This is possible through the digitalization of tasks, such as appointment scheduling, information dissemination, and electronic patient records. Generally, by avoiding paper-based clinical research practices, as well as promoting double-sided printing, researchers can help improve the environmental sustainability of dermatology clinical research. The implementation of digital applications and teledermatology platforms also helps optimize the time of both patients and physicians by reducing the need for in-person trial visits. Furthermore, there are promising approaches currently emerging to improve sustainability within dermatological surgery. For example, Mohs surgery is a standard procedure used commonly to treat skin cancer that typically uses an energy-intensive electrosurgical unit. However, a study by Leonard and McLean-Mandell suggested using a hyfrecator, a low-powered electrosurgical device used to kill tissue using a heated probe, may be a more environmentally sustainable alternative. 

 

How TFS is Putting Sustainability First: Sustainability Report 2023

TFS HealthScience CRO is devoted to demonstrating a deep commitment to sustainability, which is not just a goal, but rather a fundamental guiding principle to support the company’s clinical trial operations. Earlier this year, TFS released its Sustainability Report 2023, which showcases considerable advancements across three primary fronts: Environmental, Social, and Governance.   

 

Environmental Sustainability

On the environmental front, TFS has enhanced its carbon management through the adoption of advanced CO2 emission tracking tools and implemented sustainable operations initiatives, including a global travel booking platform and investment in renewable energy sources and eco-friendly procurement practices. Furthermore, TFS has shown its commitment to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a strategic approach to reducing carbon emissions in line with global efforts to combat climate change. 

 

Social Sustainability

TFS consistently emphasizes diversity and inclusion all across the company, fostering a workforce that reflects a strong commitment to gender diversity at all organizational levels. Their high engagement scores and extensive training initiatives also illustrate TFS’s investment in employees’ professional growth and well-being. Lastly, TFS is reinforcing its commitment to broader social issues through strategic partnerships and community engagement initiatives, such as the Dermatology Foundation, Plan International, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) or Doctors Without Borders. 

 

Sustainability in Governance

TFS underscores its commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability by reinforcing ethical business practices through policies, training programs, and a zero-tolerance stance toward corruption. The Executive Committee’s active involvement in sustainability commitments and adoption of global ESG reporting standards demonstrate effective steering towards sustainability goals. TFS also highlights its commitment to safeguarding stakeholders’ interests and ensuring service integrity and reliability through holistic risk management, including data privacy and security. 

 

TFS HealthScience CRO’s Global Sustainability Accolades

The 2023 Sustainability Report underscores TFS’s dedication to sustainability and exemplifies the progress made, reinforcing TFS’s position as a frontrunner in the pursuit of environmentally conscious and socially responsible business practices. In June 2023, the company received a Silver Rating from EcoVadis for the fourth consecutive year, placing TFS within the distinguished top 8% of 1.6 million companies evaluated worldwide. In March 2024, TFS also earned an elevated score from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), demonstrating the company’s enhanced efforts in environmental impact management. By disclosing through CDP, a global nonprofit that runs the world’s leading environmental disclosure platform, TFS is prepared to respond to the increasing demand for environmental transparency from financial institutions, customers, and policymakers.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of sustainability in dermatology clinical research is slowly gaining traction within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Using strategies such as adopting decentralized trials, implementing eco-friendly materials, and optimizing resource-intensive processes, sponsors, CROs, and investigators can significantly reduce their environmental impact. TFS exemplifies this commitment to sustainability, consistently making considerable advancements in environmental, social, and governance aspects. Continued sustainability education can ensure that dermatology clinical research practices reach a balance between advancing medical science and preserving our environment for future generations.

 

Meet the Team: TFS HealthScience Dermatology CRO

Experience the difference with TFS HealthScience Dermatology, Immunology, & Inflammatory Disease CRO for your next ophthalmology clinical trial! With a global mindset and local understanding, we provide a comprehensive suite of services, including study protocol design, medical monitoring, and project delivery. Our experienced teams implement sustainable approaches throughout the entire clinical development journey and are devoted to working for a healthier future. Trust TFS HealthScience to take your study to the next level with our dedicated Dermatology CRO, led by the esteemed Dr. Ina Zschocke, Vice President, Head of Dermatology, Immunology, & Inflammatory Disease business unit.

Visit our website to learn more about the sustainable solutions TFS offers, or connect with a TFS representative here!