The Canadian health sector has a significant impact on the environment, contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other pollutants. Healthcare activities in Canada generate approximately 33 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e) annually, accounting for 4.6% of the national total. Additionally, the sector produces over 200,000 tonnes of other pollutants, resulting in 23,000 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost annually due to direct exposures to hazardous pollutants and environmental changes caused by pollution.
The Canadian health sector, while dedicated to improving public health, paradoxically contributes significantly to environmental degradation, which in turn negatively impacts health outcomes. The pollution generated by healthcare facilities exacerbates issues such as respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and heat-related illnesses. Additionally, the sector's reliance on single-use plastics and improper waste management further contaminates the environment, contributing to the spread of harmful pathogens. The challenge is significant, as the very systems designed to heal us are inadvertently contributing to the deterioration of public health through their environmental impact.
In September 2024, IWK Health introduced the Health System Sustainability portfolio, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. Since fiscal year 2022-23, environmental sustainability has been a strategic priority for IWK Health. The formalization of the Health System Sustainability portfolio underscores our dedication to integrating sustainability into IWK Health’s core operations and will drive efforts to embed sustainability principles across governance, infrastructure, people, and practices. This move not only highlights IWK Health's commitment to a healthier planet but also reinforces its role as a leader in sustainable healthcare.