Supporting U.S.-Made Products: A Green Initiative for Hospitals

Made In The USA's Environmental Impact

Hospitals are increasingly recognizing the need to do their part in reducing carbon emissions and preventing other toxins from being released into the air and oceans. They also recognize the benefits of supporting the many emerging hospital green initiatives being embraced across industries. One way in which they are accomplishing this is to buy U.S.-made products.

How does buying U.S.-made equipment and systems benefit the environment?

There are several reasons why buying U.S. hospital products is not only good for the economy but also good for the environment:

• Reducing carbon emissions. Release of carbon dioxide into the air makes up the vast majority of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Department of Energy & Commerce reports that, since 2005, the U.S. has decreased carbon emissions by 15%. Comparatively, China has increased carbon emissions by 80% since 2005.
• Reducing the release of toxic substances into ocean waters. Buying foreign products initiates shipments across long distances, including tankers that release toxic chemicals into our oceans. The U.S. Department of Justice recently reported a Greek tanker that attempted to hide from authorities the toxic release of oily waste through the vessel’s sewage system. And this is just one example.
• Reducing the energy required for shipping and transport. When products are purchased from U.S. companies, less fuel is used to transport materials. This is key to helping reduce the carbon footprint.
• Reducing materials waste. Less distance traveled by U.S. shipments means less need for heavy packaging. This packaging can contain toxic materials used in preparing goods for long-distance travel.
• Products built in compliance with stringent environmental regulations. U.S. companies are paying attention to the impact their factories and materials can have on the environment. The regulations are stricter than those imposed by many foreign governments.

Did Your Organization Make The Pledge?

Buying hospital products made in the U.S. also supports a growing number of green initiatives and programs, some mandatory and some voluntary, which have been put together to move the U.S. towards meeting the ambitious environmental goals set forth in the current administration’s Federal Sustainability Plan.

One voluntary U.S. program that continues to gain momentum is The Health Sector Climate Pledge, introduced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It commits the healthcare provider to participate in efforts to meet the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. While it is a voluntary program, it includes an aggressive schedule of goals and milestones.

Buying U.S.-made hospital products is a win-win-win solution for hospitals and the environment.

Hospitals are recognizing the benefits of buying products and systems made in the U.S.A. over foreign suppliers. Supporting hospital green initiatives is clearly a major part of those benefits. BCC Research has forecasted the green hospital market to reach $14 billion by 2027. Green practices within hospitals are now covering a wide range of areas from use of eco-friendly building materials to waste management practices to energy efficiency.

The U.S. leads the world in carbon emissions reduction, but there is much work to be done. Hospitals can do their part by adjusting their acquisition strategies to lean into sourcing more medical systems, products, and supplies made in the U.S.A. It is good for hospitals, good for the country, and good for the environment.