Green transformation in the health sector and medical laboratories, adaptation to climate change in Türkiye

Abstract

Abstract Societal habits’ continuation is expected to result in severe consequences for climate change, causing significant environmental damage and humanitarian crises. Sustainability, defined as meeting present needs without compromising future generations, balances environment, equity, and economy. Türkiye, a middle-income developing country, has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2053 under the United Nations’ framework. The construction sector is increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, emphasizing green buildings and structures. Several green hospital certification systems, including BREEAM, LEED, and Australian Green Star, are now in use, with around 20 certified “green hospitals” in Türkiye. The “Zero Waste Project” initiated in Türkiye aims to reduce waste generation and resource usage efficiently. Recent efforts have focused on sustainability in high-carbon footprint medical laboratories, however, an international standard has not been established yet. Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine federations have established working groups on the subject. Universities and nonprofits worldwide offer green laboratory certificate programs covering energy conservation, green chemistry, waste management, and water conservation. Laboratories’ sustainability efforts encompass inventory management, green purchasing, test request reduction, greenhouse gas management, efficient building design, transportation choices, carbon footprint calculations, and education. The guides published in Türkiye are “Health Institutions Wastewater/Liquid Waste Management Handbook” and “Guide for Laboratory and Dialysis Wastes”. Türkiye’s Ministry of Health introduced the “Rational Test Request Procedure” to enhance diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness by reducing unnecessary tests. Collective efforts are essential to raise awareness and implement precautions, particularly in high-carbon footprint medical laboratories, addressing climate change and sustainability challenges in the healthcare sector.