Health Care Without Harm urges health sector to commit to climate-smart, resilient operations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ella Schwotzer, Director of Public Relations, press@hcwh.org

Health Care Without Harm urges health sector organizations to commit to climate-smart, resilient operations

[Atlanta, GA, May 6, 2025] – Today, at CleanMed, the premier national conference for leaders in health care sustainability, Health Care Without Harm launched the Health Sector CARES (Climate Action, Resilience, and Equity Solutions) Pledge. The pledge is a voluntary commitment for health sector organizations to plan for climate resilience and reduce their environmental impact, including cutting Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

"Incorporating climate considerations into emergency preparedness planning and making energy efficiency and sustainability improvements are commonsense strategies for health care organizations," said Emily Mediate, Health Care Without Harm U.S. chief program officer. “Climate-related disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, and extreme heat events are increasing in both severity and frequency, but the good news is that action now can prevent the worst impacts of climate change. The Health Sector CARES Pledge represents an open door for health sector organizations to express their commitment to resilience and sustainability, and receive support from Health Care Without Harm experts and peer organizations."

In addition to setting specific, science-based targets and sharing strategies for emissions reduction, pledge signers will commit to designating an executive-level lead for this work. Signatories will also commit to conducting an inventory of Scope 3 emissions within one year after signing.

Health Care Without Harm – a nonprofit dedicated to providing resources, knowledge, and inspiration for the health care sector to help reduce its environmental impact – will support health care organizations that sign the pledge with tools, guidance, peer learning opportunities, and other resources to support organizations committed to climate action. Health Care Without Harm will be introducing additional free learning and networking opportunities in the coming months in coordination with America Is All In, The Medical Society Consortium on Climate & Health, and others.

"Planning for resilience and making energy efficiency investments helps health sector organizations better support patients, communities, and staff,” said Mediate. “These actions advance both the physical and financial health of hospitals and other health organizations, and demonstrate leadership – reinforcing health care’s vital role as a pillar of community well-being."

The Health Sector CARES Pledge is open to any health sector organization, including hospitals, health centers, rural health clinics, suppliers, insurers, and group purchasing organizations. Those interested in learning more about the pledge can visit the website for additional information.

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About Health Care Without Harm  
Health Care Without Harm seeks to transform health care worldwide so the sector reduces its environmental impact and becomes a leader in the global movement for environmental health and justice.

About CleanMed  
CleanMed is the premier national conference for leaders in health care sustainability. Presented each year by Practice Greenhealth, CleanMed provides a platform for health care leaders to convene, collaborate, and conduct societal transformation for individual, community, and planetary health.