Sustainability in Health Care

The health care industry plays a pivotal role in contributing towards the achievement of a sustainable future. However, this industry faces significant challenges, especially as regards greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and inequalities. Health care systems are responsible for around 5% of the total greenhouse gas emissions, and 15% of its total solid waste is deemed hazardous material, as being potentially infectious, toxic, or radioactive. To tackle these challenges, collaborative initiatives have been implemented at the local and international level to ensure the alignment of sustainability objectives among stakeholders when crafting policies and business strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digital transformation of numerous health care services and products, but the net effect of these technologies on sustainable goals remains unclear.