The healthcare industry is at a pivotal moment, where innovation and sustainability must progress together. With the NHS striving to become the world’s first net-zero health service by 2040, healthcare technology providers are under increasing pressure to align with these ambitious goals.
In 2023, the sector recorded an average primary energy consumption of 375 kilowatt-hours per square metre, making it the most energy-intensive real estate sector in the country.
As technology continues to revolutionise patient care, health tech companies must integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities into their advancements to drive meaningful and sustainable progress.
Forward-thinking organisations are already demonstrating that it is possible to drive both technological progress and sustainability without compromising financial resilience or patient outcomes.
Sustainability in healthcare technology has shifted from a secondary consideration to a core responsibility
Philips’ 2024 annual report highlights its efforts to address emissions, circular economy challenges, and supply chain responsibility, all while maintaining financial resilience.
Similarly, Bupa, in collaboration with Health Care Without Harm, has released a report outlining strategies to reduce single-use items (SUIs) without compromising patient care standards.
It is clear that the healthcare technology sector as a whole must take similar action, to ensure a greener future for the industry going forward.
The growing imperative for sustainable health tech
Sustainability in healthcare technology has shifted from a secondary consideration to a core responsibility. As regulatory demands tighten and consumer expectations for greener solutions grow, companies that lag behind risk both financial and reputational fallout.
The challenge lies in integrating sustainable practices without stalling innovation - an objective that can be achieved through strategic investment, collaboration, and a commitment to circular economy principles.
To drive meaningful change, healthcare technology providers must embrace a multi-faceted approach that includes product innovation, supply chain optimisation and responsible business practices.
Companies that embed sustainability into their research and development strategies will be better positioned to adapt to evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes
Companies can drive meaningful change by investing in low-emission medical devices, prioritising recyclable materials, and leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and minimise waste.
Strengthening supply chain transparency and partnering with sustainability-focused organisations will also be crucial for reducing emissions and ensuring responsible material sourcing.
For example, health tech company Cera was set to save the NHS £125 million in winter 2024 by facilitating eight million preventative home healthcare visits, using AI to identify patients at risk of hospitalisation.
Sustainable medical device design and materials
Medical devices play a significant role in healthcare’s environmental impact, particularly in their production and disposal.
They make up approximately 10% of the NHS’ total carbon emissions, primarily from the manufacturing, transport and disposal of devices.
To mitigate this, companies must prioritise the development of energy-efficient devices that reduce emissions throughout their lifecycle.
Designing products that consume less energy, use fewer materials and offer extended durability can make a meaningful difference.
The intersection of innovation and sustainability presents a significant opportunity for the health tech sector
Transitioning to electric-powered or battery-efficient medical devices further reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with broader sustainability efforts.
Material selection is another crucial aspect of reducing waste and pollution. Traditional plastics, widely used in medical technology, contribute to environmental degradation.
Healthcare technology companies must explore sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable polymers or recycled materials, to lessen their ecological footprint.
Additionally, implementing take-back and refurbishment programmes can help extend product lifespans, ensuring that devices are repurposed rather than discarded.
Technology-driven sustainability and supply chain responsibility
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising sustainability efforts in healthcare technology. AI-driven diagnostics and predictive analytics not only enhance patient outcomes but also reduce unnecessary resource consumption.
By optimising medical imaging equipment - responsible for 5% of total site energy consumption - along with supply chain logistics and hospital energy management, AI enhances operational efficiency while significantly reducing waste and emissions.
Beyond technological advancements, ensuring supply chain transparency is critical for sustainable healthcare innovation.
The health tech industry relies on complex global supply chains, making it essential for companies to work with suppliers to ensure ethical sourcing of materials and adherence to environmental standards.
The growing imperative for sustainable health tech means companies that lag behind risk both financial and reputational fallout
Blockchain technology and digital tracking systems can improve accountability by monitoring emissions, reducing waste and reinforcing sustainability commitments.
Collaboration also plays a key role in driving large-scale change. Partnering with sustainability-focused organisations enables companies to access expertise, resources and best practices.
These alliances can help facilitate industry-wide initiatives that lower carbon footprints and promote responsible innovation, ensuring that sustainability remains a core priority rather than an afterthought.
The role that solar carports can play
Beyond this, new products and innovations - such as solar carports - are emerging into the market, reducing energy usage as automation increases demand for clean energy.
These solutions can be implemented to generate renewable energy, while also supporting continued EV adoption among the workforce.
Solar carports are growing in popularity as businesses seek to maximise the output from spaces that were previously unused for most of the day.
Our Solar Savings Index revealed that healthcare businesses could save, on average, over £200,000 annually by implementing solar energy solutions in previously unused car park spaces.
Sustainability is now a core responsibility for healthcare tech companies
Additionally, this initiative could reduce the sector’s annual CO2 emissions by more than 23 million kilograms, highlighting the significant environmental and financial benefits for the industry.
Generating solar energy on-site offers a clean alternative to conventional power sources, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions while demonstrating a business’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The solar panels work in the same way as traditional rooftop solar installations, connecting to the business’s existing electricity supply, backup battery storage, or the grid.
Taking the extra step of installing EV charging points beneath the carports can further enhance sustainability efforts. The renewable energy generated can be transformed into a tangible benefit for employees, making it easier and more convenient for them to charge their vehicles while they work.
AI is revolutionising sustainability efforts in healthcare technology
This added convenience serves as a powerful incentive for staff to transition to EVs, reinforcing an organisation’s sustainability commitment.
During a time when consumers, stakeholders, and employees alike are increasingly drawn to businesses that prioritise environmental consciousness, it is essential for companies to invest in bold, visible, and practical solutions.
Solar carports represent a clear demonstration of an organisation’s commitment to sustainability, helping businesses reach their net-zero goals while also delivering on their promise to create a healthier planet.
A greener future for the health tech industry
Sustainable innovation is not just about meeting current regulatory requirements within the health tech industry - it is about future-proofing businesses against emerging challenges.
Companies that embed sustainability into their research and development strategies will be better positioned to adapt to evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes.
To achieve long-term success, businesses should adopt circular economy models, invest in sustainable infrastructure such as solar carports, and stay ahead of regulatory changes by proactively implementing environmentally friendly policies - enhancing both brand credibility and consumer trust.
Designing energy-efficient medical devices can make a meaningful difference
The intersection of innovation and sustainability presents a significant opportunity for the health tech sector. By prioritising eco-conscious strategies, companies can not only reduce their environmental impact but also enhance business resilience, regulatory compliance, and market competitiveness.
As we navigate the future of healthcare technology, the responsibility lies with industry leaders to ensure that cutting-edge advancements contribute to both improved patient care and a healthier planet.
Every business within the sector should be committed to driving this change, to ensure that the future of healthcare is as sustainable as it is innovative.