Nearly 500 hospitals and health systems across the United States are being honored for their efforts to reduce environmental impact, build climate resilience, and transform the future of healthcare, amid growing concerns about the health effects of climate change.
Practice Greenhealth, a Reston, Va.-based nonprofit focused on sustainable healthcare. The annual recognition highlights leadership in sustainability, environmental stewardship and climate-focused innovation within the healthcare sector.
Healthcare is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 9% of U.S. emissions, according to federal data. The organization commended the honorees for taking steps such as switching to renewable energy sources, redesigning systems to conserve water and energy, eliminating hazardous chemicals from supply chains and preparing infrastructure for extreme weather events.
In addition to operational changes, many hospitals are working with local communities—particularly those on the front lines of climate-related health impacts—to promote environmental justice and health equity. These hospitals are using their purchasing power, community partnerships, and trusted public presence to move markets toward safer products and technologies.
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