Work in health care? These 4 strategies can help you cut costs and carbon content

Health care may not be the first sector that comes to mind when considering greenhouse gas emissions, but it contributes significantly to this issue. According to a study, the health care system in the U.S. is responsible for 8.5% of greenhouse gas emissions, and globally, it accounts for about 5%. The impact of these emissions on health care systems is becoming more apparent, with facilities experiencing extreme weather events and rising energy costs, and patients facing health issues related to climate change.

The underfunding of health care systems, coupled with recent reductions in health care funding, has exacerbated the problem. However, there are opportunities for health care organizations to cut costs through decarbonization efforts while also mitigating the negative impacts of emissions on society and health.

Various strategies, including energy management, transportation optimization, sustainable sourcing, waste reduction, and responsible investments, can help health care systems achieve financial benefits while reducing their carbon footprint. For instance, implementing energy-efficient building designs and management practices can result in significant savings. Transportation optimization and waste reduction initiatives have also proven to be effective in reducing emissions and costs for health care providers.

Decarbonization efforts in health care can lead to substantial financial and environmental benefits. By taking steps such as benchmarking emissions, identifying reduction strategies, and investing in energy efficiency, health care organizations can improve their sustainability while also enhancing their financial performance. Prioritizing decarbonization and other sustainability initiatives can help the health care sector become more resilient in the face of challenges posed by politics, the economy, and climate change.