The One Health approach represents a transformative way of viewing public health by acknowledging the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health. Initiated by the World Health Organization, this paradigm shift calls for a more holistic understanding of health systems that considers all these factors as deeply intertwined rather than isolated domains.
Why It Matters
1. Zoonotic Diseases: The emergence of diseases like swine flu and Covid-19 highlights the connection between climate change, rising temperatures, and the spread of infections from animals to humans.
2. Environmental Impact on Health: Environmental factors, such as air and water pollution, are responsible for nearly 25% of all premature diseases and deaths worldwide.
Systemic Solutions
Adopting the One Health approach encourages addressing these challenges at their roots—recognising that human health cannot be sustained without protecting the environment and the ecosystems that all species depend upon. For instance:
• Promoting sustainable agricultural practices to reduce zoonotic disease risks.
• Reducing environmental pollution to prevent health complications like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
By adopting this integrated view, the healthcare sector can contribute to global health outcomes while safeguarding the planet's health for future generations.
The healthcare sector has long been celebrated for its role in saving lives, yet it inadvertently contributes to environmental harm through waste and pollution. Hospitals generate unique waste types, including chemical, pharmaceutical, and infectious waste, which, if not managed sustainably, can harm both human and environmental health.
The Case for Sustainability in Healthcare
A "One Health" approach is pivotal in redefining public health. This concept, championed by the World Health Organization, links human, animal, and environmental health. For instance, environmental factors like air and water pollution contribute to nearly a quarter of premature diseases and deaths globally. Addressing these systemic issues benefits not just patients but the planet as a whole.
Ramon San Pascual, Director of Health Care Without Harm Asia, highlights the need for hospitals to see themselves as integral to the broader health system. He argues that harming the environment while treating patients creates a vicious cycle where environmental degradation causes more illnesses, bringing patients back to hospitals.
Practical Steps Towards Green Healthcare
Hospitals worldwide are adopting digital tools to track their environmental impact. Organisations like Health Care Without Harm provide blueprints to help healthcare institutions reduce carbon and waste footprints. Key actions include:
• Switching to renewable energy: Powering hospitals with clean energy sources.
• Sustainable infrastructure: Investing in net-zero emissions buildings.
• Green transportation: Transitioning to eco-friendly patient travel and transport.
• Sustainable food: Providing meals made from sustainably grown food.
• Circular waste management: Implementing systems for healthcare waste reduction and recycling.
• Low-carbon pharmaceuticals: Incentivising climate-friendly medical products.
• Enhanced system effectiveness: Streamlining hospital operations to reduce resource waste.
Success Stories
Singapore's Khoo Teck Puat Hospital demonstrates how sustainability efforts can yield tangible results. Through initiatives like a rainwater harvesting system and a green roof, it has reduced energy usage by 36%.
Why Act Now?
Sustainability in healthcare is not merely about reducing costs or enhancing efficiency. It is a moral imperative to ensure long-term health for people and the planet. As hospitals strive for excellence in patient care, integrating eco-friendly practices must become a top priority.
Let’s work towards a healthier future—for our communities and the environment!
Reference: https://govinsider.asia/intl-en/article/why-hospitals-need-to-jump-on-board-the-sustainability-bandwagon
