Generation Green – A holistic approach to implementation of green principles and practices in educational programmes in pharmaceutical and medical sciences at the University of Helsinki

• Published in: Sustainable chemistry and pharmacy 2020-06, Vol.16, p.100262, Article 100262
• Main Authors: Sivén, Mia, Teppo, Jaakko, Lapatto-Reiniluoto, Outi, Teräsalmi, Eeva, Salminen, Outi, Sikanen, Tiina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Change management; Higher education; Medicine; Sustainable pharmacy
• ISSN: 2352-5541; 2352-5541
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2020.100262

Solving the environmental and sustainability challenges associated with drug development, manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life requires comprehensive change in the mindset of healthcare professionals on all fronts. Besides current professionals, the faculty teachers and students have a critical role in facilitating the implementation of green principles and practices in educational programs, but no change occurs unless the need and the tools are properly established and their impact understood. This article describes the evolution of green pharmacy practice in the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Helsinki, following a previously published framework for change management. Furthermore, the article describes the dissemination of the principles and good practices into medical education. •The pharmacy profession must understand sustainability issues of drug production and use.•Generation Green task force is a pioneer in higher education of green pharmacy in Finland.•Managing the change following a theoretical frame makes sustainability a new normal.