The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has received a Partner for Change Award from Practice Greenhealth, the nation’s leading membership and networking organization for institutions in the healthcare community that have made a commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly practices.
The medical center also received the Ohio Hospital Association’s top environmental leadership award – the John Chapman Award, which recognizes a hospital or health system for excellence in initiating or supporting pollution prevention programs. The award is named after John Chapman or “Johnny Appleseed,” who planted thousands of apple trees across the Midwest during the 19th century.
In fiscal year 2018, the medical center’s sustainability efforts resulted in $2.3 million in cost avoidance and an increase in landfill diversion to 28% from 23.5% through composting, repurposing medical devices and reusing materials. The sustainability team at the medical center takes a holistic approach to sustainability that looks at its environmental, societal and economic impact. For example, environmental efforts include recycling ceiling and carpet tiles during various refresh projects, changing to LED lighting, using green cleaning materials, and donating 14.3 tons of food to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank Second Servings program, which serves local food pantries.
To create a culture of sustainability, the medical center implemented a zero waste program for new employee orientation. In addition, its employee-led Green Team, made up of nearly 148 volunteers, offers programs for employees such as sustainability fairs and take-back days with opportunities for confidential document shredding, electronic recycling and bike recycling.
Learn more about Wexner Medical Center’s sustainability efforts.