Did You Know?
Hospitals are significant contributors to climate change. Globally, the health care sector produces 4.4% of net greenhouse gas emissions, comparable to the output of 514 coal-fired power plants. If it were a country, it would rank as the fifth-largest emitter, larger than Japan or Brazil.
Where Does the Carbon Footprint Come From?
- Direct Emissions (Scope 1): 17% of emissions come from hospitals’ energy use and health care-owned vehicles.
- Indirect Energy Emissions (Scope 2): 12% arise from purchased electricity, steam, and heating.
- Supply Chain (Scope 3): 71% of emissions are from producing, transporting, and disposing of goods and services like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and equipment.
- More than half of health care’s emissions stem from fossil fuel combustion for energy.
- Significant contributors include agriculture (9%), transportation (7%), and waste management (3%).
How Hospitals Can Reduce Their Carbon Footprint
- Shift to Clean Energy: Transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources like solar and wind.
- Energy Efficiency: Upgrade infrastructure to minimize energy consumption.
- Sustainable Procurement: Prioritize low-carbon medical products and services.
- Decarbonization Roadmap: Develop long-term strategies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Government and Policy Support: Encourage national and sub-national health policies focused on climate-smart practices.
- Research and Collaboration: Study the carbon footprint further and innovate sustainable solutions.
A Call to Action
Hospitals must lead the way in addressing climate change. By aligning their actions with global sustainability goals, they can reduce their environmental impact while protecting health and promoting equity. The time for action is now.
Let’s Reimagine Hospitals for a Greener, Healthier Future!
