Barwon Health launches Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024–2030

Barwon Health launches Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024–2030

Barwon Health has officially launched its Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024–2030, outlining a clear and ambitious plan to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for the region.

Recognising climate change as the most significant public health threat of the 21st century, the new strategy reflects Barwon Health’s commitment to taking meaningful action. The strategy provides a roadmap for reducing the organisation’s carbon emissions and aligns with the Victorian Government’s target of net zero emissions by 2045.

Barwon Health chief executive Frances Diver expressed the importance of a clearly articulated plan for the future.

“At Barwon Health, we understand that caring for our community also means caring for the planet,” Ms Diver said.

“This strategy is our commitment to embedding environmental sustainability across our operations, without compromising, and indeed while enhancing, health outcomes for our community.”

Barwon Health is already making progress in its sustainability journey. A key initiative is its work with the Barwon Renewable Energy Partnership, alongside Barwon Water and GeelongPort, which is investing in 100% renewable electricity and supporting the region’s transition to net zero emissions.

The Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2024–2030 outlines priority actions across energy, waste, water, procurement, and transport. It also recognises the need to build resilience in the health system in response to the growing impacts of climate change.

The development of the strategy has been shaped by passionate input from staff and stakeholders across the organisation.

“We thank our teams and partners whose advocacy and expertise have helped shape this strategy,” she said.

“Achieving our goals will require ongoing collaboration, innovation and determination. This is a collective effort, and one that will benefit not only our health service, but our entire community and environment.”