CommonSpirit Health: Earth Day & Sustainability Impact

U.S. hospitals collectively produce over 5.9 million tons of waste annually, and  CommonSpirit Health is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. CommonSpirit has pledged net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, with an interim goal of a  50% reduction in operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

Here are a few highlights of our work so far:

Reducing Hospital Waste 

• 62.8M gallons of water saved, and 470K lbs of CO₂ diverted (equivalent to 9.8K trees planted) through the Food Recovery Program in California and Washington.

• 299 tons of electronics  recycled, and 3,970 tons of cardboard and mixed materials recycled across our footprint.

• Over 50% reduction in anesthetic gas pollutants. 

• Over 128 tons of medical waste diverted from landfills.

Sustainable New Builds and Remodels

Each CommonSpirit new construction or remodel project includes sustainability guidelines and goals, such as:

• Using and sourcing clean and green materials for construction

• Comprehensive recycling programs for staff and patients

• Water bottle filling stations

• Increased tree planting around clinic locations

• Energy efficient equipment and lighting

Community Impact

• 229,300 lbs of food recovered in California and Washington.

• 191,100 meals delivered to non-profits in California and Washington.

• 194,267 meals provided to people in need in California and Washington.

• 14,000 rides provided for patients in need across the footprint, addressing critical access barriers to care

Leading the Industry

• 13 CommonSpirit Health hospitals have been recognized for environmental excellence by Practice Greenhealth, a leading non-profit organization promoting environmental stewardship in healthcare.

• CommonSpirit  implemented a system-wide sustainable procurement policy, further solidifying its commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

• CommonSpirit Health earned an A-List distinction from the CDP Supplier Engagement Assessment, recognizing its robust efforts in influencing suppliers to reduce their own environmental impact.

These are just some of the steps on our journey to operationalize lower emissions and reduce our environmental footprint. Our commitment to these sustainable practices supports CommonSpirit’s vision of a healthier future for all – inspired by faith, driven by innovation and powered by our humanity.