In the world of healthcare, the Hippocratic Oath has long been a guiding star for practitioners, with its core principle: “First, do no harm.” Today, as we navigate the complexities of modern medicine, this timeless adage takes on new dimensions, extending its reach to the very environment in which we live. The concept of Green Healthcare emerges as a pivotal response to this expanded interpretation, advocating for a healthcare system that not only heals the patient but also protects the planet.

Healthcare, despite its life-saving mission, contributes a surprisingly large share to U.S. and global carbon emissions. The global health care sector accounts for about 5.2% of all global carbon dioxide emissions, with the U.S. logging the highest contribution at around 553 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. In the U.S., the health care sector alone accounts for approximately 8.5% of domestic greenhouse gas emissions, and those emissions are on the rise, increasing 6% from 2010 to 2018. This sobering reality demands immediate action. Climate change, possibly the gravest threat facing humanity, is already taking a toll on people’s physical and mental health. While health care systems shoulder the burden of caring for individuals affected by climate change, they also contribute to the problem. The sectors’ contributing the most to carbon emissions in the health system are hospital care (36%), physician and clinical services (12%), and prescription drugs (10%).

Why is it important that health care reduce its carbon footprint?

In a nutshell, it’s important because:

• Climate change causes numerous negative health impacts. Over the long term, everyone’s health will benefit from efforts to lower carbon emissions.
• The negative health effects of climate change and climate-induced crises disproportionately impact groups that are already at risk, including people of color, people with low income, people with preexisting health conditions, older adults, and children.
• Climate change disrupts the health system’s ability to deliver safe, effective care.
• Caring for the victims of climate change and repairing health facilities following climate events are expensive, and health systems bear much of these costs.
• As environmental consciousness rises and regulations tighten, green healthcare is emerging as a key differentiator and a source of competitive advantage for healthcare organizations. By adopting eco-friendly practices, healthcare organizations can demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship, attracting patients and staff who share these values.
• Green initiatives often translate to significant cost savings. Implementing energy-efficient technologies, reducing waste, and utilizing sustainable materials can lower operational costs. Additionally, healthcare organizations that prioritize sustainability may benefit from tax breaks, rebates, and other financial incentives offered by governments and green initiatives.
• Sustainable practices can contribute to a healthier and more comfortable environment for patients and staff. Utilizing natural light, incorporating green spaces, and reducing indoor air pollution can improve air quality and overall well-being. Additionally, focusing on sustainable food procurement and waste management can contribute to healthier food options and a cleaner environment for everyone.

Strategies to Reduce the Carbon Footprint of Healthcare: A Prescription for a Healthier Planet

The healthcare sector stands as a cornerstone of human well-being, yet it also plays a significant role in environmental health due to its substantial carbon footprint. The urgency to address this paradox is clear: while delivering health services, the sector must also embrace strategies that mitigate its environmental impact, thereby ensuring a healthier planet.

1. Energy Efficiency: The First Dose

A pivotal strategy is enhancing energy efficiency within healthcare facilities. Hospitals and clinics are energy-intensive, operating 24/7 with sophisticated equipment. Transitioning to energy-efficient lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems can drastically reduce energy consumption. Moreover, investing in renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power not only cuts carbon emissions but also can lead to long-term cost savings. Implementing energy management systems to monitor and optimize energy use further ensures that healthcare facilities are not just healing spaces but also green spaces.

2. Sustainable Healthcare Waste Management: The Second Treatment

Healthcare waste is a significant contributor to the sector’s carbon footprint, encompassing everything from single-use plastics to hazardous biomedical waste. Strategies to reduce this impact include implementing robust recycling programs, reducing packaging materials, and adopting non-incineration waste treatment technologies that have lower greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, rethinking procurement strategies to favor reusable or recyclable products can significantly cut down waste and associated carbon emissions.

3. Green Infrastructure

Design hospitals and clinics with sustainability in mind. Incorporate green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient HVAC systems. These investments pay off in the long run by lowering operational costs and benefiting the environment.

4. Green Procurement Policies: A Preventive Measure

The procurement of goods and services in healthcare—from medical supplies to food services—carries a substantial carbon footprint. Adopting green procurement policies encourages the selection of eco-friendly products and services, prioritizing suppliers who demonstrate sustainability in their production processes. This shift can influence market trends, encouraging more manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices, thereby reducing the carbon footprint from the supply chain.

5. Telemedicine: A Modern Remedy

The rise of telemedicine has been accelerated by technological advancements and the global pandemic. By offering remote consultations, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with patient travel and facility operations. Telemedicine not only offers a low-carbon alternative to traditional in-person visits but also expands access to care, proving particularly beneficial in rural or underserved areas.

6. Education and Training: Cultivating Green Healthcare Professionals

Empowering healthcare professionals with knowledge and skills in sustainability practices is crucial. Education and training programs can integrate environmental health into medical curricula, encouraging healthcare workers to advocate for and implement eco-friendly practices in their workplaces. This empowerment can create a culture of sustainability within the sector, where every member is a proactive participant in reducing the carbon footprint.

7. Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

No single entity can tackle the environmental challenges facing healthcare alone. Collaborative efforts involving governments, healthcare organizations, environmental experts, and the community are essential. These partnerships can foster innovation, scale effective solutions, and advocate for policies that support sustainable healthcare practices.

8. A Holistic Prescription

The strategies to reduce the carbon footprint of healthcare are diverse, yet they share a common goal: to ensure that the sector contributes positively to planetary health. By adopting these strategies, the healthcare industry can provide a dual benefit: continuing to deliver high-quality care while protecting and preserving the environment. This holistic prescription is not just for a healthier healthcare sector but for a healthier planet, aligning the mission of healthcare with the imperative of ecological sustainability.