The RIVM has improved the method that maps the environmental footprint of healthcare. The improved method can now calculate this for different sectors of healthcare. To also calculate the effect of specific product groups, it is necessary for the sectors to share more information with each other. The RIVM will discuss with healthcare providers and organizations that purchase products how this can be done as efficiently as possible. There is also a lot of international interest in this method.
The RIVM developed the method in 2022. This method looks at the effect of healthcare on the climate and other environmental effects such as the use of water, raw materials, and land. These effects influence, for example, biodiversity and the availability of raw materials and materials.
The now improved version can calculate more precisely how healthcare burdens the environment. Policymakers can use this method for more insight into possibilities to reduce the environmental burden of healthcare. This also contributes to public health.
What’s next
The method now distinguishes between different sectors, such as hospitals and long-term care. To also calculate the environmental footprint for different product groups and services, more information is needed. It is important that healthcare institutions collaborate and share this information. It is also important that data is recorded in the same way. The RIVM will discuss with healthcare providers and organizations that purchase products how this can be done as efficiently as possible. The first results are expected in 2026.
International interest
There is a lot of interest in this method and approach. The RIVM regularly receives inquiries, including from international working groups and organizations such as the OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and the World Health Organization. This gives the RIVM the opportunity to share the accumulated scientific knowledge about sustainability with a broad network.
The RIVM has improved the method on behalf of the Ministry of VWS Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport (Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport).