The Blog

Not too long ago, the term “reducing our footprint” would probably have had most of us scratching our heads with a puzzled look. Today we know much more about the threats to our planet and everyone who lives on it.  As major users of energy and disposable products healthcare providers play a major role improving the environment and ensuring our world will be a healthier place to live.

Many of  Catholic Health’s 8,200 associates are concerned and engaged. They want to see us become a better environmental organization and find ways to reduce their own personal impact on the environment, both at work and at home.

Moving towards more environmentally friendly practices is a priority for our system. Two years ago, Catholic Health President and CEO Joe McDonald, commissioned a team of concerned associates to form a “Go Green” core group to begin addressing multiple environmental issues, from the large consumption of energy at our facilities to simple ways for all of us to reduce energy and waste.

It’s making a difference.  Catholic Health now uses 10% wind-generated electricity to power our hospitals, we have reduced the use of styrofoam in our facilities, hosted pharmaceutical drop off and electronic recycling events.  We have earned EPA Green Power Partner designation and are a member of Practice Greenhealth, which provides practical guidance, training, consultation and business solutions to help its members in their efforts to implement environmentally responsible practices. And all Catholic Health facilities now offer single stream recycling program to reduce land fill waste.   But we know there is much more to do.

Together we will continue to “reduce our footprint” as we adopt more environmentally friendly work practices, find new ways to conserve energy and help protect our planet for future generations.