4 Ways to Improve Sustainability in the Medical Field

Julie Starr • March 5, 2022

Oftentimes, sustainability is discussed in the context of for-profit businesses and personal initiatives. One area in which it is often overlooked is healthcare. The medical field, whether concerned with provider-to-patient interactions or scientific research behind the scenes, is sometimes viewed as exempt from this conversation.

The required use of water, electricity, chemical disinfectants, and single-use plastics to ensure patient comfort and sanitization may make sustainability seem like it’s out of the question. The truth of the matter is that keeping science eco-friendly is just as important as keeping other business operations eco-friendly.

While a complete overhaul of the system may not be possible yet, there are still a few ways that sustainability in the medical field can be improved today.

Use renewable energy sources

Just like other infrastructure, hospital buildings, clinics, and research centers can upgrade their energy system to include efficient and renewable energy sources. A medical fridge can be powered by electricity generated through solar and wind energy and rooms can be kept warm by improving seals around windows and doors.

Reduce transportation distances

By partnering with local external stakeholders, healthcare facilities can reduce their environmental impact significantly. Partner with a waste disposal company that is close by, and work with suppliers who aren’t located overseas.

Using vehicles partially powered by biodiesel is also a great option, as is setting up incentives for staff to commute using transit systems and carpooling.

Decrease water usage

Water is essential for protecting the health of patients and staff. However, water consumption can still be reduced in healthcare settings without compromising on health. Upgrading water heating systems to ensure that water comes out of the tap hot and doesn’t need to be needlessly run first makes a massive impact.

Conducting a thorough investigation of equipment to fix leaks is also an important first step. To take this further, healthcare institutions can also harvest their own rainwater for activities like mopping floors and wiping counters.

Reduce packaging waste

Single-use plastics are a huge problem in hospitals. From individually-wrapped medical supplies (such as needles), masks, and disposable patient dinnerware and cutlery, hospitals generate a significant amount of waste.

The good news is that there are eco-friendly suppliers out there. Though it may cost more, hospitals should invest in providers who use compostable materials, tools that can be sterilized and reused, and products that come in less packaging.

Promote a culture of sustainability

To successfully integrate sustainable practices in any business or association, every person involved must be on the same page. It’s not enough to try to improve sustainability behind the scenes; staff at all levels should be aware that this is a corporate goal and value.

A specific department dedicated to sustainability and green initiatives will help the facility stay up to date on the newest technologies, as well as the environmental and financial benefits of implementing these technologies.

Staff should also be trained on sustainable practices to ensure that they’re conscious of and confident in eco-friendly procedures. Creating opportunities with front-line staff to discuss what is and isn’t working will also allow you to get the feedback you wouldn’t otherwise have and make changes accordingly.

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Why Telling Your Sustainability Story Matters — And How Taiga Company Can Help

By Julie Starr • December 17, 2024

In today’s world, sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. Consumers, investors, and stakeholders are demanding more transparency and accountability from brands. They don’t just want to know what you sell; they want to know who you are, what you stand for, and how your work contributes to a better world. That’s where your sustainability story comes in. Sharing your achievements in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives isn’t just about meeting expectations—it’s about building trust, fostering loyalty, and inspiring action. At Taiga Company, we specialize in helping organizations authentically communicate their sustainability achievements in ways that drive measurable impact and align with their goals. Why Sharing Your Sustainability Achievements Is Good for Business Build Trust with Stakeholders Sustainability storytelling builds credibility and trust. Whether you’re addressing investors, employees, or customers, sharing your sustainability milestones demonstrates your commitment to accountability and long-term value creation. For example: Highlight your efforts in achieving science-based targets, reducing carbon emissions, or adopting circular economy practices. These stories resonate with audiences looking for businesses that align with their values. Differentiate Your Brand In a competitive marketplace, sustainability can set you apart. Brands that communicate their achievements in regenerative agriculture, water stewardship, or biodiversity conservation position themselves as industry leaders and innovators. Think of it this way: A well-told sustainability story is not just a report—it’s a statement of leadership, authenticity, and purpose. Drive Stakeholder Engagement Sustainability stories invite dialogue. By showcasing meaningful milestones, like successful recycling initiatives or community reforestation projects, you foster stronger relationships with stakeholders who want to be part of your mission. Engagement isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about inspiring action. Whether through social media campaigns, press releases, or executive thought leadership, your achievements can encourage others to collaborate and support your goals. Attract Purpose-Driven Talent and Customers Today’s workforce and consumers seek brands with purpose. Communicating your impact helps attract talent and customers who align with your mission. A transparent, well-executed sustainability strategy speaks volumes about your leadership and values. At Taiga Company, we specialize in results-driven communications that empower purpose-led brands to share their sustainability achievements with confidence and clarity. Our services ensure your story resonates with the audiences that matter most. Your sustainability achievements deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Whether it’s reducing carbon emissions, innovating in sustainable packaging, or leading water stewardship initiatives, telling your story is an opportunity to inspire trust, drive action, and shape a better future.

Why Going Green Is No Longer Optional for Industry Leaders

By Julie Starr • December 16, 2024

Alright, so here’s the deal, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Sure, at this most most industries, yes, even the most unsustainable industries have this general idea, right? Well, you’re always going to find some businesses in some niches (and yes, industries too) who think that it doesn’t apply to them. But no, it applies to all niches and all industries, and yes, it’s a business requirement. Now, across every industry, the companies that are embracing green practices are the ones that are thriving. Why? Well, because customers, investors, and employees are all paying attention. If a business isn’t making an effort to be sustainable, it’s not just falling behind, it’s losing out. Overall, sustainability isn’t just about saving the planet; it’s about saving your business. Yes, this needs to be hammered in, so industry leaders, here’s why you’re just not excused. Green Practices Mean Growth Yep, it’s that plain and simple, So, sustainability isn’t just about doing the right thing, it’s about doing the smart thing. Businesses that prioritize green practices are cutting costs, staying competitive, and building trust with their audiences. So, reducing waste, switching to renewable energy, and sourcing materials ethically aren’t just good for the planet, they’re great for the bottom line. Simple enough, right? Well, take packaging, for example. Cutting down on unnecessary plastics doesn’t just make customers happy; it slashes production and disposal costs. So, switching to energy-efficient operations isn’t just environmentally friendly, rather, it saves a fortune on utilities. There don’t need to be roadblocks seen, rather they should be opportunities! There’s Plenty to Gain Okay, so sustainability isn’t just for industries with obvious environmental impact, it’s critical in healthcare too. Again, no excuses here. Hospitals and clinics use massive amounts of energy, and the waste from single-use supplies piles up fast. The same can be said for labs, and pharmacies too. Actually, go ahead and take specialty drugs as an example. Now, most people know that these life-changing treatments are for serious conditions, but they often come with sky-high costs. But why? Well, the production and distribution processes can be incredibly resource-heavy. But even sustainable practices can help lower prices, such as energy-efficient manufacturing or even cutting down on excess packaging. It might be hard to see, but little changes can make massive impacts on costs (and what’s being spent on both ends). Tech Easily Shows How Sustainability Drives Innovation The tech industry has been leading the charge when it comes to sustainability, and the results speak for themselves. Actually, companies like Google and Apple are proving that being green isn’t just possible, but this can actually be pretty profitable! If tech companies can do this, then yeah, all industries are capable. So above, medicine was mentioned, but data centers are also a great example ( since they use a lot of energy). Well, nowadays, most companies are now powering these centers with renewable energy, cutting costs and emissions at the same time. No Industry Gets a Free Pass It doesn’t matter if it’s healthcare, tech, retail, or manufacturing, basically, every industry has something to gain by going green. There are small examples like retailers ditching plastic bags for reusable ones. Then there are bigger examples like factories rethinking supply chains to cut emissions and save costs. But the reality is that businesses sticking to wasteful, outdated practices are falling behind. Besides, governments are rolling out stricter regulations.