Sustainability is as crucial in Irish healthcare, as it is globally

The biggest global health threat of the 21st Century is global warming, according to the 2023 report of ‘The Lancet Countdown on health and climate change’. The healthcare sector represents 10 per cent of the global economy and contributes 4.4 per cent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.71 per cent of these emissions are primarily derived from the health care supply chain through the production, transport and disposal of goods and services. The Irish healthcare sector is responsible for an estimated 5 per cent of the country’s Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. Sustainability is as crucial in Irish healthcare, as it is globally. To ensure the long-term viability of the system we must prioritise efficient resource use, environmental impact and reuse where possible. Sustainable practices help ensure that resources are deployed more efficiently. This includes reducing unnecessary single-use plastics, minimising water and energy waste and optimising supply chains improving waste management and sourcing sustainable materials.

A sustainable healthcare system improves overall public health by minimising pollution, improving air quality, and reducing exposure to hazardous materials. Air pollution and toxic waste contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. By adopting sustainable practices, Ireland can address health challenges linked to environmental degradation, improving population health and reducing the strain on services. Ireland, as a member of the European Union, has committed to sustainability goals, including the European Green Deal. The healthcare sector plays a crucial role in helping Ireland achieve these targets, by reducing GHGs and promoting the circular economy. Healthcare can demonstrate leadership in circularity lifecycle by reviewing products and services as a system for reusability. Extend producer responsibility and challenge suppliers to take it back, so we can reuse, recycle.