The Green Healthcare programme is funded by HSE Capital & Estates through the Climate Action & Sustainability Office.
The Climate Action & Sustainability Office works with Irish hospitals to Conserve Water, Reduce Healthcare Risk Waste, Reduce Food Waste, and Increase Recycling
Clean water is an important resource for hospitals, and, until there is a problem, most people don’t think about it too much. However, every litre of water that is paid for may not reach its intended tap, toilet or shower. As water is a costly resource, ensuring that it is carefully monitored and tracked is an important job for every hospital.
Food waste can be a significant issue in hospitals and is often difficult to address. Green Healthcare food waste surveys have shown that up to half of all food prepared in Irish hospitals ends up being thrown out. Here we provide guidance on how to learn more about your food waste and what you can do to reduce it.
Dealing with healthcare risk waste correctly is an important task for every hospital. However, healthcare risk waste is the most expensive waste to dispose of so ensuring that only risk waste ends up in these bins is an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed.
General waste accounts for almost 60% of all waste generated in Irish hospitals. Through surveys carried out by Green Healthcare it has been established that one third of this waste could be recycled. It is therefore an important area to consider when trying to reduce waste volumes and waste management costs.
Green Healthcare has developed a suite of resources for the Irish healthcare sector in relation to resource efficiency and cost savings. These resources include:
| Sector: | Waste Prevention |
| Format: | Guide |
2023
The HSE Capital & Estates Climate Action & Sustainability Office focuses on cutting emissions from Health Service buildings and supporting climate action goals. This program, funded by HSE Capital & Estates, partners with Irish hospitals to enhance sustainability by addressing…
| Sector: | Waste Prevention |
| Format: | Graphics |
2023
These eye-catching visual masterpieces serve as a gentle yet persuasive reminder to all employees about the profound impact their choices can have on waste reduction and environmental preservation. The posters could be downloaded here:
| Sector: | Food |
| Format: | Case Studies |
2023
Dietary restrictions play a vital role in the successful long-term management of chronic kidney disease. Reducing salt intake is particularly important for the management of high blood pressure. Fresh herbs are a wonderful way of boosting the natural flavour of…
| Sector: | Waste Prevention |
| Format: | Graphics |
2023
In a bustling healthcare environment, every action has the potential to contribute to a healthier planet. These posters encapsulate the essence of mindful living within the healthcare sector, empowering HSE employees to take small yet impactful steps toward a greener,…
| Sector: | Waste Prevention |
| Format: | Case Studies |
2023
Irish hospitals are taking a sustainable step by eliminating disposable coffee cups from their premises. Several hospitals across the country, including Mercy University Hospital in Cork and Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown, have implemented systems that introduce reusable coffee cups in…
| Sector: | Risk Waste |
| Format: | Graphics |
2023
The Clinical Waste poster is a visual nudge towards collective responsibility, urging each viewer to become an active participant in maintaining a safe and healthy environment. This compact poster serves as an essential reminder for healthcare professionals, support staff, and…
| Sector: | Recycling |
| Format: | Graphics |
2023
Bold and easy-to-read posters such as "Recycling," "General Waste," and "Organic Waste" accompany each waste item, guiding the viewer on the ideal destination for each type of waste. The posters can be downloaded here:
