Sustainability in hospitals: What impact do clinics have on the environment?
Sustainability in clinics means much more than separating waste or dispensing with plastic cutlery. It is about a holistic change in the entire hospital business — from building technology to the supply chain.
Important to know: Hospitals are among the most resource-intensive institutions in our society. But their impact on the environment goes far beyond electricity consumption and medical waste.
Strategic decisions are particularly important in areas such as:
- construction and selection of ecological materials
- energy sources, e.g. switching to renewable energy
- Procurement policy, for example through regional and fair supply chains
- mobility offers for employees and patients
- Handling chemicals and medicines, e.g. through take-back systems
Anyone who thinks and acts systemically here can have a big impact with comparatively few measures — and reduce their environmental footprint in the long term.
Statutory requirements for sustainability in hospitals
In recent years, politicians have also begun to focus more on sustainability in the healthcare sector. Hospitals are under increasing pressure to meet ecological standards — whether as a result of European climate goals, national laws or specific funding programs offered by countries.
A key instrument at EU level is EU taxonomy regulation, which defines which investments are considered sustainable — for example in new hospital construction or energy-efficient renovation.
In Germany, there is also that Climate Protection Act (KSG) And the German sustainability strategy provides important framework conditions.
In addition, programs such as “Climate-friendly hospitals” (BMUV) targeted climate-relevant measures in clinics — such as CO₂ savings, energy efficiency or resource conservation.
These developments not only require greater transparency in energy consumption and emissions, but also concrete implementation measures.
For clinics, this means: Sustainability is becoming increasingly mandatory — not only for ethical reasons, but also from a regulatory perspective.
What are the benefits of sustainable action for hospitals?
Anyone who focuses on resource conservation and climate protection in everyday hospital life benefits on many levels: ecologically, economically and socially.
- Cost savings: Energy-efficient lighting, heating systems and water treatment measurably reduce ongoing operating costs.
- Better public image: Acting in an environmentally responsible manner strengthens the image of patients, partners and the public.
- Attractiveness as an employer: Clinics with clear sustainability strategies target professionals who identify with responsible values.
- Eligibility: Sustainable projects have better chances of receiving public funding and funding programs.
- Higher quality of supply: Measures such as a healthier diet, reduced levels of pollutants and outdoor areas close to nature directly benefit the well-being of patients and employees.
- Future security: Anyone who invests in sustainability today is better prepared for upcoming legal requirements and market changes.
6 important measures for greater sustainability in hospitals
1. Increasing energy efficiency in hospital operations
Hospitals are real energy guzzlers — but modern building technology can significantly reduce consumption. Replacing old lighting systems with LEDs, intelligent heating controls and energy-saving ventilation technology quickly creates noticeable effects. The use of sensors for light or water also provides savings without loss of comfort.
2. Use renewable energy
Hospitals are increasingly using renewable energy sources to reduce their CO₂ emissions and become less dependent on fossil fuels.
For example, the MEDIAN Group of Clinics in Germany their first photovoltaic system has been put into operation. This plant is part of a comprehensive strategy involving the installation of solar modules on the roofs of around 130 facilities in Germany, Great Britain and Spain in order to generate a total of around 13,000 MWh of photovoltaic energy themselves. At least 80% of the solar energy generated should be used directly in clinics.
This example shows that switching to renewable energy in hospitals is not only possible, but is already being implemented in practice.
3. Prevent and recycle waste
Hospitals are among the largest waste producers in Germany. An average clinic produces around eight tons of waste every day. The large number of disposable products and packaging that are used for hygienic reasons is particularly problematic. (Source)
To counteract this, some clinics are focusing on innovative projects. The “sustainMED” project For example, digital waste and resource management for medical products is developing. The aim is to minimize the use of single-use materials and increase the recycling rate. BG Klinik Tübingen and various companies from the medical technology sector are involved, among others.
Another approach is to optimize waste separation. Structured separation systems with color coding systems and clear labels make it possible to separate and recycle recyclable materials more effectively. The introduction of reusable options, such as reusable surgical strainers or sterile sets, is also being discussed to reduce the use of disposable materials. (Thieme publication)
These measures show that, through targeted strategies and cooperation between clinics and industrial partners, a more sustainable waste management is possible in healthcare.
4. Buy and procure sustainably
Purchasing plays a central role in a hospital's sustainability strategy. It is estimated that it influences up to two thirds of emissions generated in hospitals. Clinics can significantly reduce their environmental footprint through targeted selection of products and services.
A practical approach is the implementation of sustainable procurement strategies that take environmental and social criteria into account. This includes, for example, compliance with reputable eco and sustainability labels such as “Blauer Engel” or “Fairtrade”, the switch to reusable products, the use of recycled products and the selection of suppliers and transporters in accordance with social and environmental standards.
A specific example is the initiative “Sustainable Choice” from Unite, which enables healthcare facilities to buy indirect products sustainably. In addition, shows The clinic report on sustainability 2024that social or ecological standards influence the purchasing decision in around two thirds of clinics, at least in part.
These measures show that conscious and strategic procurement can not only achieve ecological and social goals, but also achieve economic benefits.
5. Promote environmentally friendly mobility
Hospitals can significantly reduce their CO₂ emissions through targeted measures in the area of mobility.
One example of this is Charité — Universitätsmedizin Berlin, which is a comprehensive mobility concept has implemented.
This includes mobility hubs with car sharing offers, e-charging stations, bicycle sharing and e-scooters. Charité also offers its employees bicycle leasing, free bicycle checks and a solar charging station for e-bikes.
Even the Nuremberg Clinic promotes sustainable mobility through Deutschlandticket subsidies, bicycle leasing offers and the expansion of secure bicycle parking spaces. In addition, the internal transport service is increasingly being converted to e-vehicles, and charging stations for e-cars are available.
These examples show that holistic mobility management not only reduces the ecological footprint, but can also increase attractiveness as an employer.
6. Integrate a sustainability culture in the team
Technical measures alone are not enough — change starts with people. A sustainable culture in hospitals requires the commitment and involvement of all employees.
KMG clinics are one example of this, who have launched an internal campaign to sensitize employees and patients to the responsible use of resources.
The campaign includes posters with energy-saving tips, humorous notes and an internal competition to collect ideas for saving energy. These measures promote employee awareness and active participation in sustainable practices.
Another example is the GFO (Non-profit Society of Franciscan Sisters in Olpe mbH), which carries out training and workshops on sustainability topics as well as information campaigns to increase environmental awareness among employees and users.gfo-online.de
These examples show that a sustainable corporate culture in hospitals can be successfully established through targeted training, internal campaigns and the involvement of employees.
5 Barriers to Sustainable Hospitals: Solutions & Strategies
1. Investment costs & budget pressure
Issue: Sustainable technology, retrofits or new buildings are often associated with high initial costs — a problem, especially in view of tight budgets and DRG pressure.
solution: Funding programs such as “Climate-friendly Hospitals” (BMUV) provide targeted support with grants. Energy service models (“contracting”) can also outsource investments and refinance them through savings.
2. Lack of expertise in hospital management
Issue: Many hospital managers have not yet strategically anchored sustainability or have too little expertise in the areas of energy efficiency, circular economy, etc.
solution: Training offers, external sustainability consultants or the development of internal competence teams (e.g. “green teams”) help you get started. Guidance documents such as the DKG Sustainability Guide or EMAS certifications provide guidance.
3. Strict hygiene standards vs. environmental goals
Issue: The high use of single-use products and disinfection-intensive processes often seems to conflict with sustainability — particularly in the operating room sector.
solution: Research and pilot projects (e.g. “sustainMed”) show that reusable systems and more environmentally friendly materials are possible even in sensitive everyday hospital life — without safety risks. Close cooperation with manufacturers and hygiene experts is important.
4. Fragmented responsibilities
Issue: Sustainability affects many departments — from purchasing to technology to the kitchen. Without clear responsibility, the issue often remains stuck.
solution: Central coordination, e.g. by sustainability officers or staff units, bundles measures and ensures commitment. Internal steering groups promote cross-divisional cooperation.
5. Lack of motivation & communication
Issue: When sustainability is seen as an additional task, there is often a lack of acceptance among employees.
solution: Communication on equal terms, transparent goals and visible successes are decisive. Activities such as energy-saving competitions, idea collections or sustainable team challenges make the topic tangible — and strengthen identification.
What are good examples of sustainable hospitals?
1. Essen University Medical Center
The Essen University Medical Center is pursuing a holistic sustainability strategy. These include energy-saving measures, CO₂ reduction, waste prevention and a proprietary mobility concept. An interdisciplinary team coordinates the measures, accompanied by a climate manager. By publishing a “Green Hospital” book, the clinic is also sharing its knowledge with other institutions.
2nd Alb Fils Clinic Göppingen
The first is built in Göppingen Green Hospital Baden-Wurttemberg. The new building was awarded the DGNB gold pre-certification and is based on sustainable architecture, energy-efficient building technology and optimised processes. With a budget of around 360 million €, one of the most modern and climate-friendly clinics in Europe is being built.
3rd Hospital Frankfurt Höchst
It was the first hospital in the world to be complete built using passive house construction. The concept drastically reduces energy consumption and serves as an architectural model for climate-conscious construction in healthcare.
4th University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE)
The UKE combines technical efficiency with social responsibility. Energy-efficient buildings, solar power, waste reduction and a well-thought-out mobility concept make the clinic a pioneer in sustainability in the healthcare sector.
5th Havelhöhe Community Hospital (Berlin)
The hospital has been part of the project since 2013 “KLIK green” and is pursuing ambitious climate goals. It uses green electricity, has optimized heat generation and introduced employee training on resource-saving behavior — with the aim of becoming climate-neutral.
How can digitization lead to greater sustainability and efficiency for hospitals?
Die Digitalization of clinical processes is a key lever for greater sustainability and efficiency in everyday hospital life.
With providers like Nelly, you can manage administrative processes such as patient admission, document management and reckoning fully digitize — seamlessly integrated into your existing management software.
By using Nelly, you are not only reducing Paper consumption and reduce CO₂ emissions, but Relieve your staff too and improve patient satisfaction. Automated processes such as digital anamnesis, electronic document delivery and online payments enable smooth and resource-saving hospital operations.
Discover how Nelly can help your hospital become more sustainable and efficient. Find out more now.
Common questions:
What does sustainability mean in healthcare?
Sustainability in healthcare means that medical institutions assume environmental, social and economic responsibility. The aim is to design healthcare in such a way that it saves resources, minimizes environmental impact and at the same time ensures long-term supply security. These include climate-friendly buildings, fair working conditions, energy-efficient processes and sustainable procurement.
What does sustainability mean in care?
Sustainability in care means designing care processes in such a way that they are sustainable in the long term for both people and the environment. This includes resource-saving use of materials, energy-efficient appliances, environmentally friendly cleaning agents and work organization that promotes the health and satisfaction of nurses. At the same time, it is also about social sustainability — i.e. fair working conditions and a culture of human care.
Why sustainability is also worthwhile for hospitals
Sustainability pays off for hospitals for several reasons: It lowers operating costs, strengthens their image, facilitates access to funding and increases their attractiveness as an employer. At the same time, clinics are making an active contribution to climate protection — and thus to the health of the entire population. Sustainability is thus becoming a real success factor for healthcare.
