EVALUATION OF GREEN INITIATIVES IN A HEALTH CARE FACILITY IN INDIA

Background: A green and healthy hospital recognizes the connection between human health and the environment and demonstrates understanding through its governance, strategy and operations. When considering a ‘Green Hospital ‘the issues which should be addressed include, energy and water efficiency, use of renewable energy and environmental impact of waste disposal. Green hospitals therefore promote green health care by improving the health of patients, medical staff and the environment. Objectives: To assess the green initiatives in the areas of water management and waste management in a health care facility. Research Methodology: Data collection was done through an observation checklist to assess the green initiatives in areas of water management and waste management. The observation was made in the areas where such equipment's and facilities were located. Informal interview with the In-charges of various departments such as maintenance, biomedical, housekeeping and related departments was conducted to assess the green initiatives in the selected hospital. Results: The study showed that most of the green initiative aspects were taken up by the existing healthcare facility. But there are few areas which need to be focussed such as the capture of rain water system, composting of waste and organizing educational pro­gram for employees, that highlights the need to conserve and use scarce resources efficiently.