Environmental sustainability in healthcare: Managerial concerns and solutions

Healthcare's substantial environmental footprint demands targeted strategies across the sector for reducing emissions and optimising resource use. Effective governance structures, such as board involvement and/or designated sustainability officers, are essential for embedding low-carbon procurement, energy-efficient infrastructure, and waste-reduction initiatives across healthcare operations. Lean management practices and active staff engagement foster a culture of sustainability, enhancing efficiency and minimising waste. Patient-centred programs, sustainable food sourcing, and telemedicine integration further support the shift toward environmentally responsible practices. These combined strategies enable healthcare organisations to progress toward global sustainability goals without compromising patient care quality. Broader adoption of sustainable healthcare practices requires ongoing research into implementation challenges, measurable outcomes, and cost-effectiveness. Such efforts will be crucial in establishing robust, scalable models of sustainability that can produce enduring positive impacts on both the environment and healthcare delivery standards.