The future of sustainability in healthcare is shaping up to be an exciting one, with new trends emerging that will redefine how healthcare organisations approach environmental responsibility.

One major trend is the increasing focus on green building standards. As more hospitals, clinics, and care homes undergo renovations or new builds, expect to see a rise in the adoption of BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) standards, a leading sustainability assessment method(1). These buildings will be designed to reduce energy consumption, incorporate renewable energy solutions, and be constructed with materials that minimise their environmental impact.

Digitalisation is also a key player in future sustainability. As the healthcare sector embraces digital transformation, there are opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce waste through the use of technology. For example, electronic health records (EHR) reduce the need for paper, and telemedicine-such as virtual consultations-can reduce the need for patients to travel, cutting down on carbon emissions(2).

Circular economy practices are also likely to gain traction. Healthcare facilities are already focusing on reducing single-use plastics and are exploring ways to reuse or recycle medical products, packaging, and materials(3). This trend towards a more circular approach will continue to grow, with healthcare providers finding innovative ways to use materials more sustainably.

Expect a shift towards sustainable supply chains as well. Healthcare organisations are under increasing pressure to make more sustainable purchasing decisions. From sourcing ethical pharmaceuticals to purchasing environmentally-friendly equipment, healthcare organisations will be making more deliberate decisions to support sustainable businesses and reduce their carbon footprint(4).

As sustainability becomes more integrated into the fabric of healthcare, expect to see more green hospitals, digital tools for sustainability management, and innovative ways to reduce environmental impacts throughout the sector.

Bibliography

1 About BREEAM (Accessed May 2025) https://breeam.com/

2 Digital transformation and the application of technology (Accessed May 2025) https://www.england.nhs.uk/ahp/greener-ahp-hub/specific-areas-for-consideration/digital-transformation-and-the-application-of-technology/

3 Design for Life Programme and Roadmap (Accessed May 2025) https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/news-article/design-for-life-programme-and-roadmap/

4 A Net Zero Supply Chain and Suppliers (Accessed May 2025) https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/programmes/sustainability/net-zero-supply-chain-and-suppliers/