Hospitals are also big carbon emitters. Here’s how we can make them more sustainable

We are living through a climate crisis, which is rapidly evolving into a health crisis. Hospitals, recognizing this link, are increasingly striving to become more sustainable. This integration of sustainable strategies in hospital management is crucial, not only for reducing environmental footprints but also for enhancing social equity and economic viability. However, making hospitals more sustainable is no trivial task, as they are among the most resource-intensive institutions, operating 24/7, consuming vast amounts of energy and water, and generating significant waste. This article explores practical steps to make hospitals more sustainable, emphasizing that collective efforts can drive significant change.

Hospitals are central to community well-being but face immense pressure due to population growth and the prevalence of chronic diseases. This demand necessitates a rethinking of hospital operations to incorporate sustainability at their core. Sustainable hospital practices include adopting a circular economy model, which minimizes resource extraction and waste, and building sustainable infrastructure with energy-efficient designs. Creating a culture of sustainability within hospitals, supported by effective management systems and technological innovations, is also crucial. While the path to sustainability is challenging, the benefits are clear: a healthier environment, improved community well-being, and long-term economic viability.

The Intertek Sustainability – Environment Standard unifies these complementary requirements, challenging organizations to assess their environmental aspects and impacts, including those of supply chain partners, through a sustainability perspective. The standard is structured into five main components: Climate Change, Resources, Biodiversity, Waste Management, and Regulatory. Contact us today for more information.