Many items in healthcare facilities are used only once — plus, energy can be wasted because heating, cooling and devices are left on when not in use, according to an article on the Conversation website. In fact, healthcare produces 7 percent of Australia’s carbon emissions and hospitals produce about half of it.
Some ways hospitals can reduce their environmental footprint and improve their financial bottom line, include:
Reuse surgical equipment where possible. Studies conducted at Western Health and Yale-New Haven Medical Center found reusable anaesthetic equipment in operating theatres saved around $5,000 a year per operating room.
Boost recycling program. Several plastic types from hospitals can be recycled relatively easily, including PVC plastic.
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