![Pharmacy & Sustainability: A Greener Future for Healthcare | [Year]](https://d1v1e13ebw3o15.cloudfront.net/data/89651/pool_and_spa_master/..jpg "Pharmacy & Sustainability: A Greener Future for Healthcare | [Year]")
## Advancing Sustainable Healthcare: How Pharmacy is Leading the Charge Towards Net Zero
The Australian healthcare system is a vital pillar of our community, but it also carries a significant environmental footprint. Recognizing this, Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha) is actively championing sustainability initiatives to create a healthier future for both people and the planet. We believe integrating climate change mitigation into healthcare isn’t just responsible – it’s essential.
### The Urgent Need for Greener Healthcare
Recent data reveals the substantial impact of healthcare on greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged care, the australian health system generated considerable emissions in 2021-221. This underscores the critical need for systemic change.
AdPha has been vocal about this, making formal submissions to the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review. We advocate for incorporating greenhouse gas emissions and broader environmental impacts into healthcare evaluations. Factoring in carbon costs and demanding greater openness will drive more responsible choices.
### Partnering for Systemic Change: The Monash Consortium
AdPha proudly represents the pharmacy profession within Monash University’s Transitions to Sustainable Health Systems Consortium. This collaborative effort is poised to release a sector-wide guide to achieving net zero emissions. The guide will offer practical, actionable recommendations for all health professionals.
This national consortium unites leading Australian researchers, healthcare organizations, and government health departments. Together,we aim to accelerate emissions reduction,lower healthcare costs,and improve patient outcomes. Supported by the Monash Sustainable Development Institute (MSDI), the initiative focuses on system transitions, emission reduction strategies, and behavior change.
### Practical Steps Towards a Sustainable Future
The upcoming guide, *Accelerating Towards Net Zero: A Guide for the Australian Health System*, will outline concrete steps you can take within your practice. These recommendations include:
* Increasing investment in preventative healthcare measures.
* Streamlining healthcare services to eliminate inefficiencies.
* Prioritizing environmental impact when making procurement decisions.
* Minimizing clinical and packaging waste through robust recycling and reduction programs.
* Switching to renewable electricity sources to power your facilities.
* Phasing out methane gas in healthcare facilities, opting for cleaner alternatives.
* Reducing patient travel by expanding virtual care options.
### A commitment to Responsible Pharmacy Practice
AdPha is dedicated to supporting the shift towards a more responsible and sustainable hospital pharmacy profession. We are excited to support the launch of *Accelerating Towards net Zero* in October 2025.This guide represents a vital first step in helping health organizations fast-track their journey towards a healthier, more sustainable future.You can find more information and access the report when it’s available at [www.monash.edu/msdi/transitions-to-sustainable-health-systems-consortium](https://www.monash.edu/msdi/transitions-to-sustainable-health-systems-consortium).
[Image of Dr. Kate O’Hara]
*Dr. Kate O’Hara FANZCAP (Neonatol., Paeds), Vice-President of Advanced Pharmacy Australia (AdPha).*
1. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Estimates of australian health system greenhouse gas emissions 2021-22.April 9,2025. [Internet] Canberra (AU): Australian Center for Disease control;2024. [www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/estimates-of-australian-health-system-greenhouse-gas-emissions-2021-22](https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/estimates-of-australian-health-system-greenhouse-gas-emissions-2021-22)
*Top image credit: iStock.com/petmal*
