HHS Launches Pledge Initiative to Mobilize Healthcare Sector to Reduce Emissions

The Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the White House, is issuing a call to action for healthcare stakeholders to commit to tackling the climate crisis through a new initiative aimed at reducing emissions across the healthcare sector.

U.S. hospitals, health systems, suppliers, pharmaceutical companies and other industry stakeholders are invited to submit pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase their climate resilience. The White House plans to host a convening in June to highlight healthcare sector progress in promoting climate actions.

The voluntary pledge asks signees to, at a minimum, commit to: (1) reducing its organization’s emissions (by 50% by 2030 and to net zero by 2050) and publicly reporting on its progress; (2) completing an inventory of Scope 3 (supply chain) emissions; and (3) developing climate resilience plans for its facilities and communities. It also asks pledges to designate an executive lead for this work.

“The healthcare sector contributes 8.5% of total U.S. emissions, so they have a big role to play,” National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy said. “We are excited for healthcare leaders across the country willing to step up, reduce emissions, and help us reach the President’s bold climate goals.”

The department expects to make more climate-readiness resources and technical assistance supports available to healthcare providers in the coming months.

Pledge signers can download forms and find more information on the submission process here. Forms will be due by June 3.