Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Recognized with Prestigious Joint Commission Sustainability Award for Environmental Leadership and Innovation

chicago Rehabilitation Hospital Achieves First-in-Nation Sustainability Certification

Chicago, IL – Shirley ryan AbilityLab, a leading rehabilitation hospital based in Chicago, has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first hospital in Illinois and the first rehabilitation facility nationwide to earn The Joint Commission’s new Sustainability Healthcare Certification. this prestigious recognition underscores the institution’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible operations.

A Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

The hospital, widely recognized for its expertise in treating patients with stroke, spinal cord injuries, and brain trauma, began prioritizing sustainability initiatives eight years ago. Lamar Davis,General Manager of Compass one Healthcare at shirley Ryan AbilityLab,has spearheaded these efforts,coordinating sustainability programs across various departments,including Environmental Services,Food and Nutrition,Facilities Management,and Clinical Engineering.

According to a recent report by Practice Greenhealth, hospitals are increasingly focused on sustainability, with 75% having environmental sustainability programs in place as of 2023. This reflects growing awareness of the healthcare industry’s environmental impact and a desire to reduce costs through efficiency improvements.

Collaboration Drives Success

Carter Berry, Regional Director of Operations, emphasized the role of Compass One Healthcare in supporting the hospital’s achievement.”Many of the sustainability programs within the Compass One portfolio provided the foundation for our client’s success in obtaining this certification,” Berry stated. “Mr. Davis’s in-depth knowledge of these programs was instrumental in navigating the certification process.”

From benchmarks to Certification

Since its opening in 2017, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab has actively measured its carbon footprint and established benchmarks to guide long-term enhancements. These initial efforts led to a notable reduction in energy consumption, carbon emissions, and waste generation. The hospital has also expanded its recycling programs and is currently exploring the feasibility of incorporating renewable energy sources,such as wind and solar power,into its operations.

The Joint Commission’s Sustainability Healthcare certification, launched in January 2024, presented an opportunity for the hospital to refine and strengthen its existing sustainability program. Davis quickly recognized the value of the certification and led the effort to compile data,develop a comprehensive Sustainability Strategic plan and Operational Plan,and secure board approval. The certification was officially finalized in January 2025.

Future Goals and Initiatives

Looking ahead, shirley Ryan AbilityLab is committed to reducing its carbon dioxide emissions by 3-5% by 2030. Each department has outlined specific objectives to support this enterprising goal. Key initiatives include enhancing recycling rates, implementing hospital-wide composting, increasing battery recycling, and optimizing energy usage through technological upgrades.

Department	Sustainability Goal
Environmental Services	Improve recycling by 5%
Food services	Launch hospital-wide composting
clinical Engineering	Increase battery recycling
Facilities management	Reduce energy use by 2-5%

These steps will bring the hospital closer to its long-term objective: a 40% reduction in its overall carbon footprint by 2030. This will involve reducing energy consumption by 15%, doubling recycling rates to 40%, and expanding the use of renewable energy.

The certification is valid through 2027, at which point The Joint Commission will assess the hospital’s progress toward its sustainability goals.

The Growing Importance of Healthcare Sustainability

the healthcare industry is a significant energy consumer and waste generator. Increasing numbers of hospitals are now implementing sustainability initiatives not only to reduce their environmental impact but also to improve operational efficiency and enhance patient care. Sustainable practices can lower costs, improve air quality, and create a healthier environment for patients, staff, and the community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Sustainability

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Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Honored wiht Joint Commission Sustainability Award

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, a leading rehabilitation hospital, has been awarded the prestigious joint Commission Enterprise Excellence Award for Sustainability. This recognition highlights the organization’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability,healthcare innovation,and responsible environmental stewardship within the healthcare sector. The award acknowledges Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s thorough and impactful sustainability initiatives, setting a new benchmark for green healthcare facilities nationwide.

Understanding the Joint Commission’s Sustainability award

The Joint Commission, a leading accreditor of healthcare organizations in the United States, introduced the Enterprise Excellence Award for Sustainability in 2023. This award isn’t simply about “going green”; it’s a rigorous evaluation of an organization’s holistic approach to sustainability. Key areas assessed include:

* Environmental Performance: Reduction of energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation.

* Social Responsibility: Commitment to community health and well-being.

* Economic Viability: demonstrating the financial benefits of sustainable practices.

* Governance & Leadership: Embedding sustainability into the organization’s core values and strategic planning.

The award signifies that Shirley Ryan AbilityLab has demonstrated exceptional performance across all these domains, showcasing a genuine dedication to a sustainable future for healthcare.

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Key Sustainability Initiatives

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s success stems from a multi-faceted approach to sustainability, integrating innovative technologies and operational changes. Here’s a breakdown of some key initiatives:

* Energy Conservation: Implementing high-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting throughout the facility, and smart building technologies to optimize energy usage. This has resulted in significant reductions in the hospital’s carbon footprint.

* Water Management: Utilizing water-efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and landscaping practices that minimize water consumption.

* Waste Reduction & Recycling: Comprehensive recycling programs, composting initiatives, and a focus on reducing single-use plastics. The hospital actively promotes waste diversion strategies.

* Sustainable Procurement: Prioritizing the purchase of environmentally friendly products and services, including those with recycled content and reduced packaging. this includes sustainable sourcing of medical supplies.

* Green Building Design: The hospital’s state-of-the-art facility was designed and constructed with sustainability in mind, incorporating features like green roofs and natural light optimization.This aligns with LEED certification principles.

* Transportation Initiatives: Encouraging employees and visitors to utilize public transportation, biking, and carpooling through incentives and infrastructure support.

The Impact of Sustainable Healthcare Practices

The benefits of embracing sustainability in healthcare extend far beyond environmental protection.for Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and for the healthcare industry as a whole, these benefits include:

* Reduced Operating Costs: Energy and water conservation, coupled with waste reduction, translate into significant cost savings.

* Improved Patient Outcomes: A healthier environment contributes to improved patient well-being and faster recovery times. studies show a link between environmental health and patient healing.

* Enhanced Reputation & Brand Image: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability enhances the organization’s reputation and attracts environmentally conscious patients, employees, and partners.

* Increased Employee Engagement: Employees are more likely to be engaged and proud to work for an organization that prioritizes sustainability.

* Contribution to Public Health: Reducing pollution and conserving resources contributes to the overall health of the community.

Innovation in Rehabilitation and Sustainability

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s commitment to sustainability isn’t separate from its mission of providing cutting-edge rehabilitation care. In fact, the two are intrinsically linked. The hospital’s innovative approach to rehabilitation frequently enough incorporates sustainable practices.

* Assistive Technology & Recycling: Programs to refurbish and recycle assistive devices, ensuring they remain accessible to those who need them while minimizing waste.

* Tele-Rehabilitation: Expanding access to rehabilitation services through telehealth, reducing the need for patients to travel and lowering the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

* Research & Development: Investing in research to develop more sustainable rehabilitation technologies and practices.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Healthcare

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Joint Commission award serves as an inspiration for other healthcare