Clean Med Europe
A report by the WECF Health Working Group on the 1. Health Care Congress in Vienna, October 04
21.10.2004 |Elena Manvelian
CleanMed Europe
The first international healthcare congress on sustainable products and
practices in Europe took place 6-8 October, 2004 in Vienna.
By: Elena Manvelian
Member: WECF Health Working Group
More than 300 health care leaders from 28 countries met to agree on a
far-reaching platform for environmentally responsible health care. The fact
that the operation of healthcare facilities has significant environmental
impacts which contribute to the damage of our natural ecosystems therefore
on the health of people now is declared.
WECF, as a women's European network dealing with environment and health policies, considers it important to inform all stakeholders about the environmental aspects in health care, and specifically dangers for women's health. WECF also strive to promote the implementation of precautionary principles and sustainable health care without harm.
CleanMed Europe covered a broad spectrum of topics on environmental
improvement in healthcare facilities and highlighted best practices and
significant successes stories in the healthcare sector:
a.. Environmental pollution and human health
b.. Environmentally sustainable healthcare facilities
c.. Implementing green procurement
d.. Environmental hazards of pharmaceuticals
e.. PVC alternatives
f.. Replacement of toxic materials
g.. Organic food, cleaning, disinfection, laundry
h.. Environmental management systems
i.. Information and training
j.. Alternatives to waste incineration
k.. Green and healthy buildings (pre-conference- the first day of the
Congress)
It was mentioned that a new orientation is necessary:
- Green chemistry, which is aimed at/to the principles and materials of nature and creates products which fit into the natural carbon cycle.
- Creating awareness, information and training are therefore essential success factors for environmental activities.
- The necessity of less consumption of materials and energy
- Orientation on organic food production in Europe as organic food is healthier for people and for the environment
Taking into account that women are the biggest part of employers in Health
care sector one could understand the significant role of the suggested
platform for women's health.
Find out more about the Health Working Group.
