Environmental and sustainability measures
Environmental commitment is strong in the rheumatology community at Diakonhjemmet Hospital. Through a new action plan, efforts are being made to reduce the environmental footprint. Here are some examples of initiatives across research groups and clinical departments.
Clinical trial with climate accounting
The Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) is working to develop its first climate accounting for a randomized controlled trial (RCT). The focus is on reducing CO₂ emissions from data storage and email, limiting paper use, and facilitating electronic document management and signing.
Cut down on disposable items and paper consumption
At the Unit for Health Services Research and Innovation (EHI), all employees are encouraged to use their own cup at professional and operational meetings. The proportion who do so is recorded in the meeting minutes. There is also a goal to reduce paper consumption, with monthly mapping of consumption. In addition, there are measures such as spring and autumn volunteer work to delete unnecessary files and emails.
The Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic (SOR) has implemented measures such as using steel cutlery instead of disposable ones and reducing the use of paper cups. The cups are washable and can be reused. They have also already made waste sorting more clear and reduced the use of paper towels.
In inpatient and day care, the goal is to eliminate the use of cardboard and plastic for staff lunches and only use this for patients when necessary.
Digitization for the sake of the environment
The National Treatment Service for Rheumatology Rehabilitation (NBRR) is actively working to reduce paper usage. Screens in the emergency room for weekly schedules and information are being evaluated, and work is underway to digitize patient information, consent forms and quality surveys. They are also looking at how to avoid unnecessary printing using printer settings and better access to laptops.
Energy efficiency and transport
Several departments remind employees to turn off lights and appliances after use. At SOR, UL appliances are turned off after each work session. It is also encouraged to use bicycles or public transportation to work.
Waste management and food waste
SOR has clear procedures for waste sorting, especially medical waste, which has a high cost of destruction. There is also a focus on reducing food waste by organizing the refrigerator and storing food clearly labeled.
Skills development
EHI aims for all employees to increase their knowledge of sustainability. This will be done, among other things, through participation in environmental lectures during the Green Congress 2025 and through special professional meetings where sustainability goals are related - and how these can be used in research projects.
