Leading the Charge: Health Systems in Philadelphia Take Steps Towards Sustainability

In recent years, two prominent health systems in the Philadelphia area, Main Line Health and Jefferson Health, have taken steps towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Main Line Health has joined the Health Sector Climate Pledge, a nationwide initiative that aims to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 and completely eliminate them by 2050. Penn Medicine has also signed on to this pledge.

On the other hand, Jefferson Health is working towards reducing its greenhouse gas emissions as part of a sustainability initiative led by The Joint Commission, a respected hospital accreditation organization. The Sustainable Healthcare Certification from The Joint Commission acknowledges hospitals that are committed to reducing waste and pollution by targeting at least three sources of greenhouse gas emissions.

Jefferson Health is focusing on decreasing electricity, natural gas, and vehicle fuel usage across its hospitals located in Philadelphia, Bucks and Montgomery Counties, as well as South Jersey. By taking proactive steps to address their environmental impact, these health systems are demonstrating their commitment to promoting a healthier planet for future generations.