Landspitali - University Hospital
Policies and operational plan
Environmental policy and objectives
It is the policy of Landspitali is to be a role model in environmental matters and to have social responsibility as a guiding principle in decision-making and daily operations.
Environmental Policy of Landspitali
The environmental policy serves as a guide for this vision for the future. Various steps have been taken toward a more environmentally friendly Landspitali since the policy was established in 2012, and these steps are steadily increasing.
Landspitali Environmental Plan 2023-2035
The plan outlines ambitious ongoing goals for reducing the hospital's carbon footprint in the coming years. The actions in the plan number around 60 and fall into three focus areas:
Carbon-neutral healthcare
No waste
Healthy environment
See more about the climate goals and the Landspitali environmental plan 2023-2025.
Carbon Offset
The Landspitali has emphasized preventing carbon dioxide emissions instead of investing money in carbon offsetting. The hospital has numerous opportunities to reduce emissions and has achieved recognized success in preventing emissions in the long term, for example, by:
Installing nitrous oxide destruction equipment
Stopping the use of anesthetic gases with high global warming potential
Ceasing the use of oil boilers for energy production
Transitioning to electric vehicles
Promoting sustainable transportation
Increasing waste sorting.
These measures have reduced emissions by 40% in recent years. There are more opportunities to reduce emissions through direct actions, and this will continue to be a focus instead of carbon offsetting.
Environmental Impact
Landspitali is one of the largest workplaces in the country, with over 5,000 employees.
The operations are diverse and extensive, ranging from procurement and construction projects to various types of research and treatments in health sciences.
Examples of Environmental Impact
The hospital plays an important role in the health of the population in the country, but its operations also have significant effects on the environment. For example, daily operations at the hospital require:
Extensive transportation and travel
Considerable waste generation
Use of medications and hazardous substances
Large purchases of goods and services
Equipment that requires significant electricity
Various disposable products and packaging
All of this affects the environment and health in one way or another.
Reducing Environmental Impact
In recent years, efforts have been made to undertake projects that reduce environmental impact.
Emphasis has been placed on working with staff, stakeholders, and sharing the hospital's experiences.
Staff have been active participants, welcoming changes and contributing many good ideas.
Efforts are made to simplify processes and clarify whenever possible, making it easier to be environmentally friendly.
Recognitions and Certifications
2020 – Climate Champion Awards 2020 Health Care without Harm
2020 – Climate Recognition 2020 from the City of Reykjavik and Festu
2020 – Four Green Steps in Public Administration (for Skaftahlíð)
2017 - Sustainable Healthcare Organizer of the Year 2017 by Bonnier Business Media and the Nordic Center for Sustainable Healthcare.
2016 - Cycling Certification - Silver for Hringbraut and Fossvogur, Landakot, Grensás, Ármúla, Vífilsstaðir, Tunguháls, BUGL, Klepp, and the Blood Bank
2015 - The Conch, Environmental Award from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources 2014 for outstanding work in environmental matters
2015 - Swan Certification for the kitchens and cafeterias of the National University Hospital
2014 - Transportation Award from the City of Reykjavik 2014
2014 - Bike Bowl - recognition for encouraging staff cycling, including the development of facilities and transportation grants