A/Professor Shohreh Majd, Mrs Mojca Bizjak-Mikic, Mr David Waters1
1Council of Ambulance Authorities, Adelaide, Australia
Dr. Shohreh Majd is a neuroscientist, university lecturer, policy and research manager, editor-in-chief, and keynote speaker with an academic background spanning over two decades in neuroscience, human physiology, and psychology. Holding a PhD and two post-doctorates in Neuroscience, a master’s degree in Human Physiology, and two certificates in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University and the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Majd currently serves as the Policy and Research Manager at CAA, where she leads research initiatives and navigates complex policy landscapes. Additionally, she holds positions as an assistant professor and adjunct lecturer and researcher with Flinders University. Her research focuses on oxidative stress in conditions such as cardiac arrest, stroke, aging, and Alzheimer’s disease, with numerous citations in peer-reviewed literature. In her role at CAA, Dr. Majd conducts research, analyses policy issues, manages projects, and represents CAA in relevant committees. She is dedicated to integrating scientific insights to foster positive mental change and empower individuals.
Sustainable practices encompass a range of initiatives designed to curtail energy and water consumption, minimize waste generation, advocate sustainable transport solutions, endorse environmentally conscious procurement practices, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Title and Presentation overview: Sustainability in Ambulance Services
Beyond the ecological imperative lies a nuanced understanding of the economic and social ramifications of environmental degradation. Among the myriad threats, climate change looms large with far-reaching implications for Australia’s economy, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. As the imperative to address these challenges intensifies globally, the need for sustainable environmental policy within emergency services becomes increasingly apparent.
Implementing sustainable practices within emergency services presents challenges, including a pervasive lack of awareness and comprehension regarding sustainable methodologies, the financial burden associated with their implementation, and a dearth of regulatory mechanisms incentivizing their adoption. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities—chief among them being potential cost savings derived from energy and water efficiency measures, the cultivation of a favourable public perception through sustainable initiatives, and the prospect of commendation and support for sustainability endeavours.
The Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA) stands resolute in its dedication to sustainability, recognizing the critical need to reduce the environmental impact of ambulance services while ensuring the highest standards of patient care.