Environmental Services Week 2024

According to the AHA, Environmental Services Week “is a time to show appreciation for the dedicated EVS personnel who ensure health care facilities across the country are clean, safe places for patients, their families, and other staff members.”

Here are five simple ways to introduce sustainability into your celebrations for Environmental Services Week, which runs September 8-14, 2024:

1. Play in a Friendly Competition

Is it time to reinvigorate your recycling programs or roll out a new initiative? Create a theme for sustainable trivia, waste sorting (think to recycle, trash, and others), or a “what doesn’t belong” game so that it’s informative but, more importantly, memorable. Keep it light and fun, and they’ll be asking for more!

2. Celebrate Their Role in the Organization’s Sustainability Efforts

Make direct connections between how EVS is key to the hospital’s sustainability programs and how they’re contributing to a safer, healthier environment. This could range from assisting with waste handling to leading unique recycling practices, adhering to safer cleaning methods, and supporting preventative or integrated pest management (IPM) efforts to reduce the use of toxic chemicals.

3. Source Sustainable Products

Be mindful—think of products that will be used repeatedly rather than tossed after one day or week. A few suggestions: “Green Champion” badge clips, reusable water bottles, or products made from recycled-content materials. If you’re open to exploring other ideas, consider silicone drink straws, reusable bottles or mugs, small houseplants, or gift cards to local eco-friendly restaurants or businesses. Try finding one supplier that provides a sustainable product.

4. Create a Sustainability Wall of Fame

Highlight the achievements of EVS staff who have gone above and beyond to support your facility’s green initiatives. Recognize their efforts to reduce waste, improve recycling rates, or adopt sustainable cleaning practices. Publicly acknowledging their contributions fosters pride and further motivates sustainable action.

5. Host a Green Training Session

Take this opportunity to provide a refresher or a deep dive into sustainable practices. Whether it’s optimizing recycling efforts, understanding proper waste segregation, or learning about environmentally friendly cleaning products, a training session can educate and empower your team. Plus, it reinforces that sustainability is a vital part of your organization’s mission.

Are you looking for other ways to make your facility, hospital, or healthcare system more sustainable? 

Let’s connect and start your sustainability journey together. Reduction In Motion has been helping healthcare organizations improve waste management and sustainability for over twenty years. Reach out for a free phone consultation or preliminary site visit.

TrashTalk@ReductionInMotion.com

410-877-1593