The Healthy Hospital Movement, or Practice Greenhealth movememnt, are emerging as the healthcare industries way to reduce emissions. The movements are being led by cutting edge designers and healthcare practitioners who seek to minimize the impact of hospitals on the environment.

As a recently new phenomenon, this movement reflects the current trend in the developed world to reduce the degradation of the earth, and to maintain and the environment rather than plunder it for human recreation and consumption. The current discourse on environmentalism and sustainable development has reached the ears of architects and designers looking to implement green initiatives in hospitals. The emphasis on energy efficiency, green cleaning, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is resulting in a healthier atmosphere for patients, and a better future for our world.

Hospitals routinely use chemicals, materials, and design plans that are not always in the best interests of patients. Some in fact are more dangerous given their high levels of toxis metals and bioharzardous materials. Harsh chemicals for cleaning and sanitizing, paints with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), flooring, wall, ceiling, and construction material made out of non-renewable resources, use of gallons of water, huge amounts of toxic waste released to the environment, and poor air circulation are just a few of the issues with hospital construction that are being tackled today.

Many hospitals in the United States, inspired by the green health movement, are starting to recycle light bulbs, use LED lights, non-toxic materials, and paints with low VOCs. Eliminating the use of mercury thermometers and hospital incinerators are just a few of the steps being taken. Even something as small as changing the mop heads from cotton to micro fibre can save a hospital thousands of gallons of water a year. Increasing attention to energy efficient windows and insulation assist in keeping costs low. Some facilities are using more efficient mops and floor buffers, which use less water, less chemicals, and contribute to the overall health of employees and patients alike. Green Seal cleaning chemicals in the United States provide an alternative to products that are high in VOCs, and are both safe and effective. Chemicals, paints, and adhesives low in VOCs ensures cleaner air for patients and employees to breathe.

The Healthy Hospital Movement does not focus purely on environmentally friendly design, but also works to incorporate nature into the healing process. Balconies, natural light, and rooftop gardens are now being constructed to assist in patient treatment. Studies have shown strong evidence for access to nature accelerating the healing process. Better air circulation and quick access to fresh air from the outdoors is remarkably therapeutic. This current trend towards green development in hospitals has been accompanied by a move away from a sterilized and rigid, to a homey, comfortable feel. Making patients feel at home reduces stress, and results in faster recovery times. The focus on natural light and accommodation for family members is turning hospital rooms into an enjoyable stay.

Healthy Foods Means Cleaner Air

Bringing healthier food choices into hospital menus is yet another step taken by hospitals seeking to benefit the environment and patient health. Food production and consumption are issues of great importance in today’s society. With obesity on the rise and farming practices degrading the earth, hospitals need to be innovators in dietary choices. Over the last few decades, farm sizes have increased, even though individual farms have lessened in number. There are fewer varieties of crops being grown, and many farmers now opt for monocropping. The resultant dip in crop variety means people are going without essential nutrients. This technique is also environmentally destructive.

It is no secret that fast food and junk food are unhealthy options, but they tend to be available for those people always on the go. Although a convenient choice, fast food offers little nutrition and is a major impediment to the health of the nation. Even in hospitals, deep fryers and unhealthy food choices in vending machines have only contributed to the problem. The healthy hospital movement is changing these trends by including food in their program that is both sustainable and healthy.

Some hospitals have started farmers markets within hospital grounds, providing fresh fruits and vegetables for patients. These hospitals are also working to replace unhealthy vending machine options with nutritious snacks. Lastly, by making meals delicious and wholesome, hospitals speed up recovery time for patients, and make their stay a little more enjoyable. The first goal of a hospital is to heal, not harm. Therefore, this move to sustainable food sources is a logical and responsible one.

Lex Med Paves the Path

The Lexington Medical Center is an excellent case study of a hospital at the forefront of environmental advancements in healthcare in the United States. Located in South Carolina, the Lexington Medical Center has long been recognized for their recycling program. During the process in renovating the center to be people and environmentally friendly, 75% of the construction materials were recycled rather than sent to a landfill, and the new material used for construction was largely produced from recycled goods. The air conditioning system now uses a chemical that does not damage the ozone, bicycles and other forms of transportation are highly encouraged, a runoff pond was built to capture rainwater and prevent solids from entering into the river or streams, effectively reducing storm water runoff. The use of energy efficient roofing, windows, and insulation, helps to reduce the impact of the hospital on the environment, and also lowers the cost of running the center.

There is some debate as to whether this green initiative is cost effective. True, some of these recycled and non-toxic materials are slightly more expensive. These changes take time, funding, and even some trial and error. These negative aspects are minuscule when compared to the long term environmental health benefits. Being leaders and innovators in health, development, and the nature, these hospitals involved in the green movement show a promising future for patients and the ecosystem alike.

MyNursingUniforms is doing their part to reduce their emissions. Check out our MNU Green page to learn more about the ways YOU actually reduce emissions by choosing to purchased with MNU.

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