Measures for environment and sustainability
The environmental commitment is strong in the rheumatological environment at Diakonhjemmet Hospital. A new action plan is working to reduce the environmental footprint. Here are some examples of measures across research groups and clinical departments.
Clinical testing with climate accounts
The Clinical Testing 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 e-mail, limiting paper usage and facilitating electronic document management and signing.
Cut into disposable items and paper consumption
At the Unit for Health Service Research and Innovation (EHI), all employees are encouraged to use their own cup at professional and operating meetings. The proportion who does so is entered in the minutes of the meeting. It is also a goal to reduce paper consumption, with monthly mapping of consumption. In addition, there are measures such as spring and autumn dugs for the deletion of unnecessary files and emails.
Rheumatological outpatient clinic (SOR) has taken measures such as using steel cutlery rather than disposable and reducing the use of cardboard mugs. The cups are washed and can be reused. They have also already made clear waste sorting and reduced use of paper dry.
At the day and day care, the goal is to remove the use of cardboard and plastic for the staff's lunch and only use this for patients when needed.
Digitization for the sake of the environment
National treatment service for rheumatological rehabilitation (NBRR) is actively working to reduce paper use. Screens are considered on the waiting room for the weekly schedule and information, and work is underway to digitize patient information, consent forms and quality surveys. They also look at how to avoid unnecessary printing using printer settings and better access to laptops.
Energy efficiency and transport
Several departments remind employees of turning off lights and appliances after use. At SOR, UL devices are switched off after each work session. It is also encouraged to use a bicycle or public transport for work.
Waste management and food waste
Sor has clear waste sorting routines, especially of medical waste, which has a high cost of destruction. The focus is also on reducing food waste by organizing the refrigerator and storing food clearly marked.
Raising
Ehi's goal is for all employees to increase their knowledge of sustainability. This will, among other things, be done through participation in environmental lectures during the Green Congress 2025 and through their own professional meetings where one relates to sustainability goals - and how these can be used in the research projects.
