As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, the healthcare sector in Canada is increasingly recognizing its role in promoting environmental sustainability. Hospitals and clinics are significant contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for approximately 5.1% of Canada's annual emissions.¹

This statistic underscores the urgent need for healthcare facilities to adopt sustainable practices that not only reduce their environmental footprint but also enhance patient care and operational efficiency.

This article explores evidence-based strategies and practical steps that healthcare providers in Ontario and across Canada can implement to move towards a greener future.

The Imperative for Sustainability in Healthcare

The healthcare sector's environmental impact is substantial, encompassing energy consumption, waste generation, and resource utilization. Beyond environmental concerns, these factors also affect public health, as environmental degradation can lead to increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, integrating sustainability into healthcare is both an ethical obligation and a strategic approach to improving health outcomes.

Key Areas for Sustainability Initiatives

1. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Why It Matters:

Healthcare facilities are among the most energy-intensive buildings, operating 24/7 with specialized equipment and stringent climate control requirements. Improving energy efficiency and incorporating renewable energy sources can significantly reduce GHG emissions and operational costs.

Strategies:

• Conduct Energy Audits: Regular assessments can identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. Implementing recommendations from these audits can lead to substantial energy savings.
• Upgrade Lighting and HVAC Systems: Replacing outdated lighting with LED alternatives and investing in energy-efficient HVAC systems can drastically reduce energy consumption.
• Invest in Renewable Energy: Installing solar panels or utilizing geothermal energy can offset traditional energy use, leading to long-term sustainability.

Case Study: The Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care has been instrumental in promoting energy efficiency across healthcare facilities, providing resources and toolkits to guide institutions toward sustainable energy practices.²

2. Sustainable Waste Management

Why It Matters:

Healthcare facilities generate substantial waste, including hazardous materials that require careful disposal. Implementing sustainable waste management practices minimizes environmental impact and enhances safety.

Strategies:

• Waste Segregation: Properly separating hazardous and non-hazardous waste reduces the volume requiring specialized disposal methods.
• Recycling Programs: Establishing comprehensive recycling initiatives for materials like paper, plastics, and metals can significantly reduce waste.
• Composting Organic Waste: Implementing composting programs for organic materials, such as food waste, can reduce landfill contributions and produce useful compost for landscaping.

Insight: According to the Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care, healthcare workers can impact sustainability through various practices, including waste reduction and sustainable procurement.³

3. Water Conservation

Why It Matters:

Water is a precious resource, and healthcare facilities consume large quantities daily. Implementing water conservation measures can reduce environmental impact and operational costs.

Strategies:

• Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Utilizing low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads can significantly reduce water usage.
• Regular Maintenance: Routine inspections and maintenance can prevent leaks and ensure systems operate efficiently.
• Educate Staff: Training staff on water conservation practices fosters a culture of sustainability within the facility.

Resource: The Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care offers toolkits to help healthcare facilities implement water conservation measures effectively.⁴

4. Sustainable Procurement

Why It Matters:

The products and services that healthcare facilities procure have environmental and social impacts. Sustainable procurement ensures that these impacts are considered, promoting environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Strategies:

• Source Eco-Friendly Products: Choosing products with minimal packaging, recycled content, and non-toxic materials reduces environmental harm.
• Engage with Green Suppliers: Partnering with suppliers committed to sustainability encourages broader industry change.
• Implement Procurement Policies: Developing policies that prioritize sustainability criteria ensures consistent and impactful purchasing decisions.

Example: HealthPRO Canada emphasizes the importance of sustainable procurement practices, striving to create long-term value while maintaining a positive impact on communities.⁵

5. Sustainable Transportation

Why It Matters:

Transportation associated with healthcare operations contributes to GHG emissions. Promoting sustainable transportation options can mitigate this impact.

Strategies:

• Encourage Active Transportation: Providing facilities for walking and cycling promotes healthier, emission-free commuting options.
• Support Public Transit Use: Offering incentives for staff and patients to use public transportation can reduce individual car use.
• Implement Telemedicine: Utilizing telehealth services reduces the need for travel, lowering emissions associated with patient and staff commutes.

Perspective: Ensuring that all communities benefit from sustainable practices, not just those in urban centers, is crucial for equitable access to sustainable healthcare.⁶

Benefits of Sustainable Practices in Healthcare

Adopting sustainable practices yields numerous benefits:

• Environmental Impact: Reduces pollution and conserves natural resources.
• Economic Efficiency: Lowers operational costs through energy and resource savings.
• Enhanced Public Health: Mitigates health risks associated with environmental degradation.
• Regulatory Compliance: Aligns with governmental policies and societal expectations for environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

The transition to environmental sustainability in Canadian healthcare facilities is both a challenge and an opportunity. By implementing strategies in energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, sustainable procurement, and transportation, healthcare providers can play a pivotal role in combating climate change.

Citations:

1. Sustainable Health Systems - Family Medicine - McMaster University ↩︎
2. Preparing Canadian Health Care Facilities for Climate Change ↩︎
3. Hospitals - Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care Inc.  ↩︎
4. Preparing Canadian Health Care Facilities for Climate Change ↩︎
5. Check out HealthPRO Canada's Sustainability Snapshot! ↩︎
6. Towards Net Zero: Advancing Sustainability in Canada’s Healthcare Sector ↩︎