Green radiology review: environmental impact of imaging and strategies for sustainable practice in Japan

Review finds operational electricity use, especially idle imaging equipment, is a major radiology greenhouse gas source; power management and reducing low-value imaging can cut emissions without harming care. Japan's high scanner density with low use may increase wasteful energy.

• Narrative review of radiology's environmental footprint and practical green strategies, with a focus on Japan.
• Idle periods of MRI, CT, and other equipment represent a key mitigation target; power-down protocols and AI optimization can help.
• Japan's high scanner density and low per-scanner utilization pose unique challenges, requiring balanced regional coordination to reduce non-productive energy use while maintaining access.

RadPigeon summaries are original and for information only. They are not clinical advice.