Maria Middelares takes next steps towards sustainable care

Maria Middelares is strengthening its commitment to sustainable and future oriented care. Over the past period, we mapped our entire carbon footprint through a comprehensive CO2 analysis, in collaboration with Net Zero Healthcare Impact (NZHI). The analysis showed our organisation was responsible for over 35 000 tonnes of CO2 in 2024, most of which is linked to medical materials, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and transport.

These insights form the starting point for a clear logitudinal approach: our roadmap 2030, through which we aim to reduce CO2 by 30% by 2030, compared to the reference year 2024.

A clear direction for the coming years

Based on the analysis and conversations with doctors and employees, we developed a future-oriented roadmap, which gives direction on how we want to embed sustainability in our daily operations. The plan focuses on areas where we can make the most difference, such as:

• less waste and better recycling
• sustainable food choices and less food waste
• more efficient and ecological use of medicines (reducing CO2 impact and biodiversity impact of discharge water)
• smart choices in energy and materials
• gradual switch to more digital information

Why this is important

We want to provide care that combines quality, humanity and sustainability. Our approach aligns with broader European climate goals and with the evolution within the healthcare sector, where sustainability is becoming increasingly important. By making clear choices now, we are building a care environment that is ready for the future, for our patients, our staff and society.

Sustainable choices are gradually becoming the norm in our operations.

Together we make the difference

Sustainable care is a journey we take together. We continue to monitor our progress, refine our approach and develop new initiatives. Via the NZHI dashboard, among others, we keep a close eye on the evolution. This way, we continue to communicate transparently about progress, challenges and new goals.

Together, we are taking steps towards care with a smaller ecological footprint.