UNMC and Nebraska Medicine were among 61 of the largest U.S. hospital and health sector companies named by the Joe Biden-Kamala Harris administration as participants in the administration’s Health Sector Climate Pledge.
The participants, who were named June 30, commit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030. The new commitments represent more than 650 hospitals and thousands of other providers across the country and include plans to strengthen resilience to climate change, protect public health and lower costs. The health care sector accounts for 8.5% of U.S. emissions, so these commitments advance President Biden’s goal to reduce nationwide greenhouse gas emissions 50 to 52% in 2030 and reach net-zero emissions in 2050.
Jerrod Bley, medical center sustainability manager, said being a signatory to the Health Care Sector Climate Pledge is an exciting opportunity.
“The medical center can demonstrate our commitment to addressing and mitigating the worst impacts of the climate crisis,” he said. “This sends a strong signal to our partners, from local vendors to the highest level of government, that leadership at the medical center is willing to allocate the resources needed to lower our risks and elevate our preparedness and resiliency planning in the face of a changing climate.
“As a large organization with a massive supply chain, we contribute each day to global emission output. It’s our responsibility to do everything possible to accelerate action and to center and prioritize climate justice as we transition into a clean future.”
The med center takes its sustainability goals seriously, UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, said.
“UNMC and Nebraska Medicine has long been committed to reducing emissions as part of the effort to be good stewards of our environment as yet another important way that we contribute to the mission of creating a healthier future for all,” Dr. Gold said. “We are pleased to join with other health centers across the country in an effort to reduce the impact emissions have in Nebraska and throughout the country.”
Nebraska Medicine CEO Jim Linder, MD, said, “This effort is yet another example of the innovations that begin at the med center. Just as we feel a responsibility to provide extraordinary care to our patients, we also know we must lead the way in creating a healthier environment. We’re honored to share that responsibility with other leading health care organizations.”
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