Barwon Health has released a five-year strategy to ensure it operates sustainably into the future.
The Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024-30 outlines Barwon Health’s plan to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable region.
In the strategy’s foreword, Barwon Health chief executive Frances Diver recognises that climate change has emerged as the “most significant threat to global public health” and states “it is imperative for us to recognise this pressing reality and take proactive measures to care not only for our community but also our planet”.
The strategy outlines the work Barwon Health is already undertaking, such as working toward net zero in partnership with Barwon Water and GeelongPort, optimising energy and water efficiency, using a fleet of electric vehicles and engaging in a comprehensive recycling and resource recovery program.
It then details Barwon Health’s six strategic priorities moving forward – leadership; energy, water and buildings; waste and chemicals; pharmaceuticals; purchasing food; and transportation – and how it will measure its success in those areas.
Ms Diver expressed the importance of a clearly articulated plan for the future.
“This strategy is our commitment to embedding environmental sustainability across our operations, without compromising, and indeed while enhancing, health outcomes for our community,” she said.
“We thank our teams and partners whose advocacy and expertise have helped shape this strategy.
“Achieving our goals will require ongoing collaboration, innovation and determination. This is a collective effort, and one that will benefit not only our health service, but our entire community and environment.”
Visit barwonhealth.org.au to view or download the strategy.
