Sustainability in Healthcare
Healing patients is the core mission of any hospital, but a growing number are recognizing the crucial link between human health and environmental health. Two Singaporean hospitals – Ng Teng Fong General Hospital and Alexandra Hospital – are leading the charge in sustainable healthcare practices, demonstrating that healing the planet can go hand-in-hand with healing patients.
Ng Teng Fong General Hospital: Energy Efficiency and Innovation
Ng Teng Fong General Hospital (NTFGH) is actively pursuing energy efficiency initiatives. Recognizing that operating theatres are significant energy consumers, the hospital has implemented a “sleep mode” for these facilities when not in use, minimizing energy consumption.
Furthermore, NTFGH has embraced a data-driven approach to energy management. By meticulously tracking energy and water usage, the hospital can identify areas for improvement and measure the impact of its sustainability efforts. The results are impressive: the energy saved in 2021 could have powered 4,809 four-room HDB flats for a year, highlighting the significant environmental impact of these initiatives.
Alexandra Hospital: Tackling Food Waste and Promoting Circularity
Alexandra Hospital is focusing on reducing food waste, a significant contributor to the hospital’s environmental footprint. By implementing a system to recover and utilize clean food waste, the hospital is diverting waste from landfills and promoting a circular economy.
The hospital has established a garden where food waste is processed into fertilizer, cultivating fresh produce like chilli, spinach, and pandan leaves for use in patient meals. This initiative not only reduces waste but also enhances the quality and sustainability of patient meals.
Beyond Energy and Waste: A Holistic Approach
Both hospitals are taking a holistic approach to sustainability.
Reducing Air Conditioning Usage: NTFGH has adjusted air-conditioning temperatures in offices and other areas, promoting a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment.
Minimizing Single-Use Plastics: Alexandra Hospital has taken significant steps to eliminate single-use plastics, including the elimination of disposable plastic bags in the pharmacy.
Addressing Textile Waste: Both hospitals are exploring innovative solutions for textile waste, such as collecting and repurposing used uniforms and linen.
A Model for Sustainable Healthcare
The pioneering efforts of these Singaporean hospitals demonstrate that sustainability can be successfully integrated into the healthcare sector. By prioritizing energy efficiency, minimizing waste, and embracing innovative solutions, these institutions are not only improving their environmental impact but also enhancing the overall quality of patient care. Their initiatives serve as a valuable model for other healthcare providers worldwide, inspiring a new era of sustainable and responsible healthcare practices.
