Lancet MedZero tool - what is it?

The Lancet MedZero tool was launched on 20th May 2026, but what is it?

It is a free, online database that provides the carbon footprint of anything and everything (*) healthcare related. It has been convened by the Lancet with some of the most knowledgeable and experienced people from across carbon footprinting and healthcare including Nick Watts and Chantelle Rizan and many more. (*almost) 

What does it do?

Lancet Med Zero Provides robust, standardised carbon analytics for medicines, medical & surgical devices and diagnostics which can be combined into care pathways.

Who is it for?

Really anyone working in health and environmental sustainability, whether clinicians, academics, managers, system leaders or industry partners.

Where can I find the tool? 

Visit https://www.medzerocarbon.com/ and search for syringes, bandages and (almost) anything else. There is a beauty in combining healthcare LCAs with other assessments including financial modelling and being able to change by country of production or country of use. This way, the transport or waste emissions are more bespoke for each global user.

If Lancet MedZero answers “What is the carbon footprint of healthcare?”, then
the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare answers “How do we change healthcare because of it?”. Together, they form a full pathway from data to decision to delivery. Simply, if MedZero supplies the carbon evidence, then SusQI supplies the change method and together they allow clinicians to test low‑carbon alternatives, quantify carbon savings and demonstrate safety and value.