Webinar Recap: ONE health, ONE planet! How can EMAS help healthcare centres improve humans and planet's health?

On May 20, 2025, a webinar organized by the EU EMAS Helpdesk brought together stakeholders from the healthcare sector to explore how the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) can support healthcare centres in adopting more sustainable and resilient practices. The event delved into the One Health approach, the role of EMAS in environmental management, and featured practical examples from healthcare institutions across Europe.

The webinar opened with a welcome from the European Commission, followed by an introduction to the One Health concept by the European Economic and Social Committee. This approach recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, and highlights the need for a holistic response to challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation and the resilience of health systems.

Representatives from the EU EMAS Helpdesk then outlined the environmental impact of the healthcare sector and the importance of systematic environmental management. EMAS was presented as a key tool for healthcare institutions, offering a structured framework to monitor, manage, and improve their environmental performance. The scheme helps centres reduce their consumption of energy, water, and materials, minimise waste, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability to stakeholders and the public.

Sustainability Practices in the Healthcare Sector

The heart of the webinar featured case studies from EMAS-registered healthcare centres in Austria, Estonia, and Spain. Speakers shared hands-on experiences and practical solutions:

• Barmherzige Brüder, Austria: 
  Gerald Andreas Santer described how the hospital has successfully implemented a range of energy-saving measures, such as optimising heating and lighting systems, resulting in significant reductions in energy consumption. These efforts have not only lessened the hospital’s environmental footprint but also fostered a culture of sustainability among employees.
• Tartu Ülikooli Kliinikum, Estonia: 
  Triin Arujõe highlighted the clinic’s targeted actions to reduce single-use plastics and promote green procurement, prioritising environmentally friendly products throughout their operations. The hospital has also launched staff awareness campaigns and training initiatives to embed environmental responsibility in daily routines. These measures have contributed to measurable reductions in waste and set a strong example for other healthcare facilities in Estonia.
• Consorci Hospitalari de Vic, Spain: 
  Anna Fuster Muñoz presented the hospital’s innovative circular initiatives, including the reuse of certain medical materials and the transition to renewable energy sources for their operations. The hospital has also placed a strong emphasis on engaging both staff and patients in sustainability efforts, raising awareness about environmental issues within the community. These strategies have helped to enhance the hospital’s environmental performance and align its operations with broader sustainability goals.

These examples demonstrated that the journey toward greener healthcare is already well underway, with tangible benefits for both patients and the environment.

Conclusion

The webinar highlighted the vital role EMAS can play in helping healthcare institutions meet sustainability targets and contribute to the broader One Health objective. By adopting EMAS, healthcare centres can reduce resource use, minimise environmental impacts, and build resilience in the face of global health challenges. As the sector continues to evolve, embracing sustainability will be essential for protecting both people and the planet.

For those interested in learning more, the webinar recording and presentations are available on the event page below.