University of Pittsburgh Planetary Health Journal Club Presentation

The Environmental Impact of Data-Driven Precision Medicine Initiatives

As precision medicine and AI-driven health informatics continue to advance, their environmental impact remains an overlooked concern in healthcare innovation. This presentation explores the significant carbon footprint associated with data-intensive practices, including energy consumption from data storage and AI model training, as well as the environmental toll of producing and disposing of digital health technologies. Drawing on recent research and global case studies, the session examines how rare earth mineral extraction, medical e-waste, and unsustainable laboratory practices contribute to ecological harm. It also highlights emerging solutions such as Green AI, sustainable supply chains, and the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF). The goal is to prompt reflection and discussion on how the healthcare sector and future leaders can adopt more sustainable, data-conscious practices.