Green hospital initiatives

We have initiated many activities to reduce our environmental footprint, particularly by reducing what we use and recycling where we can. Our caregivers are passionate about protecting our pristine WA landscape and precious natural resources for the future.

In 2018, the University of Sydney found that the healthcare sector contributes 7% of Australia’s carbon footprint. International networks Healthcare Without Harm, the Climate and Health Alliance and Global Green and Healthy Hospitals are advocating the change to more sustainable healthcare provision across the globe as healthcare providers aim to meet community expectations and consumer preference for responsible facilities. This becomes even more important as climate change threatens health and healthcare functions.

Murdoch has responded to this challenge with a concerted effort by all of our caregivers.

Did you know? 

There are 34 different waste streams utilised at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, and 23 of these are recycling streams!

Current status:

2019 - 34% recycled waste diverted from Landfill 
2020 - 41% recycle waste diverted from Landfill

So, what are we doing?

• Our Green Team committee is in place all over the hospital with members in most areas. Theatres, ICU/CCU, Cancer Centre and Medical Records are leading the way with maximum recycling with very passionate Green Team members in their areas.
• Catering’s Room Service meal delivery started in June 2020 to reduce food waste by 35%
• Our Engineering team recycle metal, furniture, mattresses, fluro tubes, E-Waste and batteries
• Group Environmental Sustainability Committee now in place which focuses on recycling innovation for all St John of God Health Care hospitals. Performance indicators established and internal promotion of recycling options for improvement tabled.
• Recycling of many items from clinical areas, including IV bags, theatre plastics, single use metal and sterile wrap
• Organic bins are now implemented into our kitchens
• Cash for Cans operating in staff tearooms
• BYO coffee cup offers at Hospital cafes
• Larger windows in new or redeveloped areas to take advantage of available daylight
• More services available online, including electronic admissions

Energy use and conservation:

• Solar-heated water now provided in all areas across the hospital
• Over 1200 light fittings have been replaced with LED globes
• Sensor lights installed in office areas
• AI platform analytics controlling air conditioning in parts of the hospital
• Water saver fittings are on all flushers, showers, taps without compromising water pressure on all-important patient room showers!

Take a look at our simple swaps to save the world.