The healthcare sector is facing a concerning rise in greenhouse gas emissions, as reported by the medical journal, The Lancet. In 2021, emissions from the healthcare industry were 9.5% higher than the previous year, accounting for 4.6% of global emissions. Tshepo Mokhadi, an environmental health practitioner, points out that energy consumption, waste production, water use, and supply chain are the major contributors to these emissions.
Hospitals, in particular, require large amounts of energy for various operations, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions, especially if the energy comes from non-renewable sources. Additionally, healthcare facilities generate large volumes of waste, including hazardous and chemical waste, which can result in improper disposal and the release of pollutants. Moreover, the extensive use of water in healthcare facilities contributes to resource depletion and energy use for water heating and treatment.
Mokhadi emphasizes that high energy consumption in operating theaters, unsustainable procurement practices leading to single-use plastics, and poor waste management are key drivers of carbon emissions in the healthcare sector. Azeeza Rangunwala, a medical scientist, highlights the challenges in waste management, including inaccurate segregation and inadequate facilities for waste clarification, minimization, and disposal.
Furthermore, Rangunwala mentions that incineration, the common treatment for medical waste, is a major source of air pollution, impacting nearby communities through direct inhalation or indirect exposure via food and water. To address these issues, Mokhadi notes that the South African Department of Health has implemented various programs to support eco-friendly healthcare practices, with 74 hospitals joining the Network of Global Green and Healthy Hospitals. These hospitals are actively participating in sustainable health practices and writing case studies to promote environmentally friendly initiatives.
In conclusion, efforts to reduce emissions in the healthcare sector are crucial for environmental sustainability. The implementation of strategic programs and concepts such as net zero, decarbonization, and just transition in health are essential steps towards a greener and healthier future.
