The health effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent – more frequent extreme weather events such as heat waves, fires, floods, and storms are leading to direct loss of life, malnutrition due to crop failure, and altered infectious disease patterns due to water and vector-borne disease. Air pollution is also contributing significantly to heart disease, stroke, and respiratory disease worldwide.

The health care sector, however, whose mission it is to protect health, is a major contributor to climate change and air pollution. A new study published by The Lancet Planetary Health shows that the health care sector accounts for 7% of Australia’s CO₂e emissions (CO₂ equivalent refers to a combination of harmful greenhouse gases, not just carbon dioxide), with hospitals and pharmaceuticals making up most of this. 

The beginning of a new year serves as an opportunity to make a resolution for positive changes and improvements over the next 12 months and beyond. While often associated with personal goals such as exercising more and eating better, organizations and companies can also set goals and resolutions to improve over the coming year.

For GGHH member institutions, now is a great time to resolve to reduce your environmental footprint and take on the Green Health Challenges!