The Pill and the Planet: can we have both a healthy ageing population
and a sustainable future?

Dr Ian Mudway, Imperial College
Modern medicine's success in extending lifespans comes at an environmental cost.
This lecture explores the pollution from single-use plastics, pharmaceuticals, and
medical waste, questioning whether we can sustain this model. It examines the
impact of drugs and their metabolites on ecosystems, the carbon footprint of
healthcare, and the ethical dilemma of balancing individual health with planetary
health. The talk will explore potential solutions, including green pharmacy, innovative
materials, and responsible waste management, asking if a future with both healthy
aging and a thriving planet is achievable.