Climate protection in the healthcare system: Hospitals under pressure!

Climate protection in the healthcare system: Hospitals under pressure!

A new study by the University of Witten/Herdecke examines the effective climate protection strategies in German hospitals and shows their important role in the healthcare system. It is found that these institutions are not only large energy consumers, but also contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The study, which includes a nationwide online survey of hospital management, underlines the key role of hospital management in the successful process of climate protection measures. Lara Schmidt and Prof. Dr. Sabine Bohnet-Joschko led the study, which identified four types of hospitals: the “ambitious newcomers” and the “well-positioned professionals”. The latter have institutionalized climate protection and are characterized by strategic management.

The results show that clear prioritization and transparent communication from management are necessary to motivate employees and implement effective measures. According to the study, however, these strategies need to be more firmly anchored in everyday clinical practice, especially in view of increasing regulatory requirements.

Need for action in the German healthcare system

The German Hospital Society reports on a comprehensive research project carried out between April 2021 and July 2022 to analyze resource consumption in German hospitals. 263 hospitals were involved, dealing with key topics such as energy management and waste management. The investigation provided the first insight into climate and energy-relevant data from German hospitals and at the same time revealed a need for action. Over 100 identified climate protection measures offer practical implementation options for reducing CO2 emissions.

The researchers find that around 5% of greenhouse gases nationwide are generated in the healthcare sector, with hospitals accounting for a significant share of this. It is therefore recommended to expand climate protection measures, particularly in technical systems and heat supply.

Climate neutrality by 2030

On the 125th German Medical Day The urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the healthcare sector is emphasized. The delegates are calling for a binding climate neutrality target for the entire sector by 2030. Important measures that must be taken in this context are the creation of a legal framework and the appointment of climate representatives. Declarations such as “Climate-neutral German Medical Association by 2030” are part of these efforts.

The implementation of climate protection measures also includes the resource-saving use of substances, the exchange of climate-damaging anesthetic gases and the promotion of sustainable nutrition in canteens. It is also suggested that pilot projects be initiated to increase sustainability and inform patients about the health consequences of climate change.

The health consequences of climate change represent a key challenge, and many healthcare facilities are not adequately equipped to deal with extreme weather events. In order to overcome these challenges, significant financial resources are required to implement adaptation measures in healthcare facilities. Experts agree: Climate protection in the healthcare system must be addressed now.