Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1541922
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP HIGHLIGHTS + 55 Practice Greenhealth Environmental Excellence Awards + 21% reduction in emissions in 2024 compared to our 2019 baseline + 85% of hospitals deactivated wasteful piped delivery for nitrous oxide + 100% of hospitals received The Joint Commission's Sustainable Healthcare Certification + 57 sites completed LED retrofits to reduce emissions and costs PROVIDENCE | ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDHIP REPORT | 3 It is my privilege to present Providence's 2024 Environmental Stewardship Report, a testament to the unwavering commitment and collective efforts of our organization toward fostering health for a better world. Our work in environmental stewardship is anchored in the Mission and values that guide Providence every day. We are steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the environment because it is fundamentally linked to the health and well-being of the communities and individuals we serve. As we reflect on our journey from 2019 through 2024, we are proud to announce a significant achievement—a 21% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in our hospitals, compared to our 2019 baseline. This milestone demonstrates continued commitment to decreasing our environmental impact, while exemplifying our dedication to responsible stewardship. We had several other notable achievements in 2024, such as advancing our commitment to complete an LED retrofit project across our facilities, which has enhanced our energy efficiency and further reduced our carbon footprint. We slashed emissions from anesthesia care by selecting less-polluting medications and reducing wasted nitrous oxide. DEAR COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND PARTNERS, I am also delighted to share that Providence has received the Joint Commission's Sustainable Healthcare Certification at 100% of our hospitals (over 50). This recognition speaks to the rigor and efficacy of our stewardship efforts and strengthens our position among the nation's leaders. I extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated caregivers, whose passion and efforts make our environmental stewardship possible. Your dedication and hard work are the backbone of our success and progress. I thank our visionary leadership team for their steadfast commitment, which has propelled Providence's success in environmental stewardship. While we have made strong progress, we acknowledge that there is more work ahead. The road to environmental stewardship is continuous, demanding persistence and collaborative action. Let us embrace this vital journey, recognizing that our actions today lay the foundation for healthier communities and families tomorrow. With appreciation and commitment, Beth Shenk, PhD., MHI, RN-BC, FAAN Chief Environmental Stewardship Officer