Healthcare companies in the Middle East must work towards developing a resilient ecosystem to drive change as the region takes center stage in tackling climate change over the next two years.
This year’s COP27 which took place in Egypt to be followed by COP28 in the United Arab Emirates in 2023 requires businesses to commit to the environment and sustainability with actions, not just words. It may surprise some that the healthcare sector, which includes everything from hospitals to pharmaceutical manufacturing, is responsible for about four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
In a recent article published in regional media, Pelin Incesu, AstraZeneca’s Area Vice President for the Middle East and Africa, said that if the healthcare sector were a country, it would be the fifth largest emitter on the planet.
“For the world to meet internationally agreed targets to limit global temperature increases, the healthcare sector must recognize its contribution and play a key role in reducing emissions,” she said.
She also said AstraZeneca is taking bold steps to reduce its carbon footprint through a $1 billion investment in the Ambition Zero Carbon program that aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gases and build resilience across the company’s supply chains. . She said that as a biotechnology company, Astra Zeneca has aligned its climate strategy with the latest science.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman and Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare said, “Climate change is affecting humanity and driving us to a precipice through global warming. The public, especially the younger generation, is becoming more aware and more active in protecting the environment. However, there is a demand for large corporate players, including healthcare providers, to be actively involved in this as it is our duty to future generations.
“Many large corporations have set net zero goals and implemented numerous initiatives. While implementing some strategies may take time and will not have an immediate effect, as responsible organizations we must lead by example to ensure we enable a sustainable future for the planet.
“At Aster, we are raising awareness of internal and external stakeholders to maintain a healthy balance to protect and feed the world. As a responsible and committed healthcare provider with the highest level of ESG rating, we strive to adopt best practices for achieving sustainability. This is achieved through partnerships and collaborations that will reduce our environmental footprint. In addition, Aster has integrated 11 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into its ESG policies, which include Climate Action.
Dr. Azad Moopen
Financial barriers may be the biggest barriers for healthcare companies to adopt a sustainable ecosystem, therefore, the healthcare industry must find ways to better utilize existing resources to provide care to more patients. Digital and telehealth technology is positively contributing to environmental change by removing the ‘miles of care’ of patients traveling to and from healthcare facilities, as well as reducing the need for single-use personal protective equipment that has the potential high global warming.
Asma Ali Zain is a freelance journalist and a regular contributor to Omnia Health.
