The federal government has signed a public statement of collaboration with the United States and the United Kingdom to decarbonise healthcare supply chains.
Around 5 percent of Australia’s carbon emissions can be attributed to the health system, with many of the medicines and health technologies used in Australia imported from overseas.
Estimates reveal that these global supply chains account for around 75 per cent of the Australian health sector’s carbon footprint.
The commitment to signing a public statement of collaboration will align healthcare procurement requirements and accelerate the decarbonisation of global healthcare supply chains, according to a statement from Ged Kearney, the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care.
Led by the National Health Service in England and the United States Department of Health and Human Services, with other participating countries including Ireland and Norway, the initiative will see Australia participate in discussions about green procurement.
In particular, there will be a focus on two main areas: getting suppliers to disclose their carbon emissions and setting targets for reducing emissions.
“From extreme heat to more frequent bushfires, climate change is forever changing our environment and how we live. Australia needs a health system that is prepared for these challenges,” Kearney said.
“Addressing the health impacts of climate change requires everyone onboard, it requires international collaboration. Australia is stepping up and joining the UK and US in accelerating the decarbonation of our health systems and supply chains.
“Reducing carbon emissions from the production and supply of healthcare goods and services is a very effective way to make healthcare greener.”
Want to hear more about responsible procurement in the health and aged care sector?
Register now for the 9th Annual PASA Health & Aged Care Procurement Conference which takes place this June in Sydney.
