Introduction
As part of the Green@UMHealth initiative, we are dedicated to making healthcare greener. The first step in this journey is understanding what sustainability in healthcare truly means and why it is crucial for the future of both the environment and public health.
What is Sustainability in Healthcare?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a Sustainable Healthcare System as ‘a system that improves, maintains or restores health, while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and leveraging opportunities to restore and improve it, to the benefit of the health and well-being of current and future generations’.
On a global average basis, healthcare systems account for over 4% of global CO2 emissions. For most industrialized nations, that figure is closer to 10% of national emissions. That is more than the aviation or shipping sectors
It is time to extend the principle of “first, do no harm” – the very foundation of healthcare – to the planet.
Why Does It Matter?
Healthcare systems are among the largest consumers of energy and produce substantial waste. From the use of electricity in hospitals to the disposal of medical waste, healthcare can contribute significantly to environmental degradation. By adopting sustainable practices, we can reduce the environmental impact of healthcare operations, promote healthier communities, and set an example for others to follow.
Key Areas of Focus in Green Healthcare
Green@UMHealth: Our Commitment
At Green@UMHealth, we are committed to making a positive impact by embracing sustainability within the healthcare sector. From improving waste management practices to adopting energy-efficient technologies, we are working towards a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Stay Tuned
Keep an eye out for future bulletins that will explore how does healthcare impact the environment, how we are reducing our carbon footprint, tackling hospital waste, saving energy, and more. Join us on our journey to a greener healthcare system!
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