ISSUE FOCUS Sustainability An existing structure was repurposed for this healthcare facility dedicated to care for elderly patients. Adaptive reuse projects reduce embodied carbon emissions. Navigating the ins and outs of sustainable certifi cations in healthcare projects PATHWAYS TO GREEN Shifting the focus: Prioritizing decarbonization over certifi cation While certifi cations can be valuable long-term goals, prioritizing immediate action is crucial for healthcare sustainability. The industry can achieve this by focusing renovations on energy reduction and decarbonization strategies. Upgrading building envelopes and HVAC systems can make a signifi cant impact now, reducing the environmental footprint, while laying the groundwork for future certifi cations. According to a 2018 report by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, hospitals account for roughly 9% of the total national commercial building energy consumption in the United States. This translates to signifi cant environmental and fi nancial burdens equating to $10.9 billion annually. BY JOHN D. HYDE & BRADLEY R. BAKER Climate change is an urgent problem, and the healthcare industry is a signifi cant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and waste streams. According to the Health and Human Services Department, healthcare accounts for nearly 8.5% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. If ignored, emissions from this sector will continue to rise and accelerate the climate crisis. Decarbonizing the healthcare industry will be challenging but will have many advantages, including reduced operational costs, lower carbon footprint, reduced environmental impact and fewer adverse health e ects on surrounding communities and supply chains. Fortunately, there are practical and scalable decarbonization strategies that can be implemented now, which will have an immediate and lasting positive impact on the environment and humankind. Decarbonization through smart renovations air sealing, insulation and an e cient HVAC system will enhance building performance and occupant comfort, providing improved air quality for patients and sta . Evaluating the building envelope and optimizing it through air sealing and insulation upgrades are important fi rst steps. Utilizing passive design strategies like natural daylighting and ventilation reduces energy demand for lighting and HVAC systems. Sealing air ducts, insulating piping and ductwork and retro-commission of existing HVAC systems, or installing new energy-e cient HVAC systems can all help, as well. After minimizing building energy consumption, incorporating on-site renewable energy can substantially reduce utility costs and move facilities in the direction of zero carbon futures. Renovations can signifi cantly reduce a healthcare facility’s operational carbon footprint. Fortunately, evaluation tools and scalable technologies are available to identify and implement the right decarbonization strategies e ectively. A well-designed enclosure with proper Selecting sustainable materials Choosing sustainable materials and equipment for healthcare renovations is no simple task. Comparing the health versus sustainability of building materials is complicated by inconsistent data availability. Trade-o s exist, as a material with low environmental impact might Photo by Randall Garnick 26 Medical Construction & Design | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024 | MCDMAG.COM
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