Environmental Services Week Celebration Ideas

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

Here are 3 simple ways to introduce sustainability into your celebrations for Environmental Services week which runs September 11-17, 2022:

Play into 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 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!

Celebrate their role in the organization’s sustainability efforts

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

Source Sustainable Products

Be mindful, think of products that will be used time and time again versus something that will be tossed after that one day or week. A few suggestions that may relate to work setting: “green champion” badge clips, reusable water bottles, or other products made from recycled-content materials. If you’re open to exploring other ideas, we suggest silicone drink straws, reusable bottles or mugs, small houseplants, or gift cards to local restaurants or businesses.

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 20 years. Reach out for a free phone consultation or preliminary site visit.

TrashTalk@ReductionInMotion.com

410-877-1593