Introducing the Decarbonisation and Optimisation Inhaler App

A new decision support tool, the Decarbonisation and Optimisation Inhaler App, has been launched to help healthcare professionals streamline inhaler prescribing while prioritising sustainability and patient care.

Designed for staff use, the app optimises inhaler prescriptions by consolidating multiple inhalers into fewer devices where appropriate. It identifies inhalers best suited to a patient’s technique and promotes dry powder inhalers (DPIs) as the first-line option for those capable of using them. By prioritising inhalers with the lowest global warming potential, the app aligns with the NHS’s environmental goals.

Victoria Richards-Green, Respiratory Lead Pharmacist said:
"Inhaler assessments can take 30–40 minutes, a timeframe that's rarely available in primary or secondary care. The app consolidates all of our knowledge about inhalers, their functionalities, limitations, and quirks, so reviews are faster and more consistent without compromising outcomes. This allows us to focus on patients most in need, optimise treatment, and ensure they’re involved in decisions, which improves compliance."

Developed by Victoria the app integrates the All Wales Asthma and COPD Guidelines with the Decarbonisation Strategy to create an efficient, patient-centred approach to inhaler use.

Rhian Thomas, Physician Associate at Blackwood Medical Group, said:
"About half of the patients we see come in with asthma or inhaler-related questions. Often, we don’t know where their treatment started or what’s causing issues, making it harder to offer the right advice. After trying the app, I’ve seen how it simplifies the process, it’s easy to use, provides tailored guidance, and helps personalise treatment. By consolidating devices, we can reduce waste and give patients more control over their health."

She added:
"The app frees up time for healthcare professionals, reduces unnecessary referrals to respiratory nurses, and ensures urgent cases receive the attention they need. It’s a win for both patient care and sustainability."

Inhalers currently account for 3.1% of the NHS’s total carbon footprint, equivalent to the emissions from 185,000 cars driving for a year. This is largely due to the propellant gases in aerosol inhalers (pMDIs), which contribute 95% of the carbon footprint, while the manufacture and disposal of the devices account for less than 5%.

Switching to DPIs or soft mist inhalers (SMIs), which do not use propellant gases, can significantly reduce this impact, as these options have approximately 25 times lower carbon emissions per dose.

Victoria continued:
"By encouraging better inhaler control, we can reduce the overuse of rescue inhalers like Ventolin and move towards more sustainable options. This not only reduces prescribing burdens but also supports the NHS’s decarbonisation agenda."

Additionally, returning used inhalers for safe disposal can further cut emissions. If every inhaler user in the UK returned their unused inhalers for a year, it would save 512,330 tonnes of CO2e, equivalent to driving a car around the world 88,606 times.

By integrating this tool into clinical workflows, healthcare teams can ensure consistent care delivery, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to a greener future.