Delivering Quality Healthcare, Sustainably — A National Imperative
Singapore’s healthcare system is facing a dual challenge: delivering high-quality care while responding to the urgent threat of climate change. Globally, healthcare systems contribute to approximately 5% of carbon emissions — a stark reminder that even systems designed to save lives can inadvertently contribute to global health risks if sustainability is not prioritised.
The Ministry of Health has acknowledged this reality and is actively working to ensure Singapore’s healthcare sector remains resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible. This includes reducing carbon emissions, improving resource efficiency, and enhancing infrastructure adaptability in the face of climate-related disruptions.
Delivering quality care sustainably isn’t just an aspiration — it’s a necessity. From greening hospital operations to reducing energy use, to embracing climate-friendly technologies and supply chains, every step matters. Sustainability in healthcare also protects the vulnerable, ensures long-term affordability, and supports national climate goals.
As someone passionate about green initiatives in the built environment and facilities management, I strongly support MOH’s call for collective action. Let’s align our efforts across sectors to safeguard both public health and planetary health — for today and generations to come.