In the face of escalating climate threats, health systems are increasingly exposed not only as responders to climate-related health crises but also as contributors to the problem. With health care systems accounting for around 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and 17% of that arising directly from facility operations, the urgency to decarbonize is undeniable.
1.Procurement Power: Driving Green Markets from Within
From pharmaceuticals to catering and building materials, hospitals purchase vast volumes of goods and services, making them powerful market influencers. Hospitals can also opt for eco-friendlier alternatives, such as powder inhalers or reusable surgical supplies, but doing so requires not just policy change, but also buy-in from clinicians and patients.
2.Greener Buildings, Smarter Energy
Retrofitting old buildings and ensuring that new ones meet green building standards can yield dramatic benefits. Some Austrian hospitals, like KAGes and Tirol Kliniken, have embarked on ambitious projects involving geothermal systems, wood–hybrid construction, and solar panels. While such initiatives can be capital-intensive, the EU offers support through funds like the LIFE programme and the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
3.Waste Not: Circular Thinking in Health Facilities
The need to build “green skills” among health professionals, from understanding carbon footprints to engaging in sustainable procurement. New professional roles, such as climate managers, are emerging in countries like Austria, where hospitals receive specialized support to embed sustainability in daily operations.