A hospital’s primary focus should be to provide care for its patients, but there’s also an increasing need to adopt more sustainable practices within the institution. Hospitals are now under more pressure than ever before to reduce their environmental footprint.
Integrating waste reduction strategies into hospital operations offers a direct and impactful approach to address this challenge. With this in mind, sustainability and waste experts from Business Waste have shared the top strategies that hospitals can apply to run more sustainably.
1 – Introduce comprehensive recycling programs
Recycling is the foundation of sustainable waste management. Hospitals can reduce waste by implementing comprehensive recycling programs that go beyond paper and plastics to include metals, electronics, and glass. Special attention should be given to recycling single-use medical devices which, after proper sterilisation and reprocessing, can safely be reused.
Advanced segregation techniques will take this a step further. For example, clear signage and distinct bins should be used for the following categories: infectious waste, pharmaceutical waste, chemical waste, and radioactive waste. Partner with certified recycling companies that can provide bins and containers for these waste types, and the segregation won’t be such a complicated and time-consuming process.
2 – Invest in reusable products and materials
Transition from single-use to reusable products where possible in your hospital. This plays a big role in moving towards a more sustainable administration. It could include items such as surgical instruments, linens, and even certain types of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Investing in durable and reusable alternatives reduces waste but also decreases long-term costs associated with purchasing disposable items. Hospitals must ensure, however, that the transition to reusable items doesn’t compromise patient safety, by adhering to strict sterilisation and handling protocols.
3 – Optimise energy and water use
Sustainability in hospitals isn’t limited to waste management; it also covers efficient use of energy and water. Hospital management should look into waste audits, which should check all the main systems including lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Are they as energy-effective as they can be? If not, consider replacing old bulbs with LEDs, which are a lot more efficient and long-lasting.
Replace some of the old heaters with smart thermostats that are guaranteed to save both costs and energy. Consider adopting water-saving fixtures, which will help reduce water overuse too. Conducting regular energy audits and investing in more energy-efficient devices and technology can further enhance sustainability efforts in your hospital.
4 – Foster a culture of sustainability
Last but not least, fostering a culture of sustainability within the hospital is essential. This involves educating and engaging all staff members, from administrative personnel to nurses and doctors, about the importance of sustainable practices. Encourage staff to participate in eco-initiatives and provide training and guidance on the hospital’s green goals and what each one of them can do to help achieve them. The most eco-conscious and diligent staff members could even be rewarded.
Hospitals can also engage patients to take part in their sustainable efforts by promoting an overall culture of environmental care, responsibility, and action.
By incorporating at least some of these strategies, hospitals should significantly reduce their waste output and move towards more sustainable operations. The benefits of such practices extend beyond environmental impact; they also include financial savings, improved patient and staff satisfaction, and a stronger reputation in the community. As pillars of health and wellbeing, hospitals that also take an interest in green practices will lead by example within their communities.
