Materials Uses for Sustainable Healthcare

About This Course

Singapore is not immune to the impact of climate change. In 2024, we endured 122 more dangerous heat days. According to Singapore’s third national climate change study, heavier, more frequent, and more intense storms are also expected with climate change. The healthcare sector is a major contributor to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions responsible for global warming. Health Care Without Harm and independent design firm Arup reported in April 2021 that Singapore’s healthcare sector was one of the top carbon emitters in the world. Following the Singapore government’s commitment to greening its public sector, Singapore’s Ministry of Health has committed to planning and implementing sustainability measures, where feasible, to meet GreenGov.SG targets. Several local hospitals have already actioned sustainability initiatives – for instance, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and has installed solar panels translating to 184.2 tonnes of carbon footprint saved a year. However, the healthcare sector’s climate footprint does not come from the use of electricity alone and waste is another important contributor that needs to be addressed.

The Centre for Healthcare Innovation launched its Sustainability Academy on 4 July 2024 with the aim of building “thought leadership, culture, and capability to enhance the resilience and reliability of healthcare systems, communities, and the environment”. In collaboration with the Sustainability Academy, this course is designed to train healthcare professionals to evaluate and integrate sustainable materials in medical applications. The knowledge and skills acquired through this course will be important for strengthening their sustainability capabilities. The course may also facilitate effective action for sustainable healthcare.