ISLH - EECC – Climate-Resilient Island Health: Course 2 – Reducing our Environmental Impact

Today, about 5 percent of Canada's national greenhouse gas emissions come from the health care sector. There is a growing recognition that health care systems can, and must, change to reduce this impact. An environmentally sustainable health system is possible. But what does it look like?

This course explores practical ways to reduce emissions, waste, and other environmental impacts across health care operations. It outlines key focus areas and solutions that individuals and teams can implement in support of Island Health’s Climate Change and Planetary Health Strategy. It also shows how environmental action aligns with other core priorities such as quality improvement, patient safety, and cost efficiency.

This course is Part 2 of 4 in the Climate-Resilient Island Health learning series. Together, the four parts explore how climate change is affecting health in our region, how Island Health is responding, and how everyone can help build a climate-resilient health system.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe the core principles of environmentally sustainable health care and how they help reduce our contribution to climate change.

• Explain how climate action creates co-benefits for quality, safety, and cost savings.

• Identify practical strategies to reduce waste, conserve water, and promote greener transportation.

• Access Island Health programs, resources, and teams that support environmental sustainability and Planetary Health.