The Pacific region of the Global Green and Healthy Hospitals network (GGHH Pacific) is delighted to welcome the Western Australia Department of Health (WA Health) as an official member of the network.

WA Health now joins health departments in Victoria, Queensland and the ACT as official members of GGHH Pacific, which represents 2,180+ hospitals and health services across Australia.

WA Health has also established a Sustainable Development Unit to coordinate a systemwide response on climate action and sustainability across the West Australian health system, based on the UK's successful National Health Service model.

Globally, GGHH has 1,500+ members in 75 countries, representing 60,000+ hospitals, health services and organisations who are dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint and promoting public and environmental health.

Dr Andrew Robertson, Chief Health Officer, WA Department of Health:

"The Department of Health is proud and committed to be involved in building a climate-resilient and sustainable health system for Western Australia.

"The WA health system will initially focus on two of the Global Green and Healthy Hospital program goals – Leadership and Energy – to reduce our environmental footprint and improve population health.

"Climate solutions benefit our health and our economy, so by improving the sustainability of WA public hospitals, we will be protecting the health and wellbeing of our communities while also reducing costs.

"There is a lot that can be done to reduce the health risks associated with climate change, and joining the GGHH network gives the WA health system access to national and international expertise and resources to help us accelerate towards our sustainability goals."

Fiona Armstrong, Founder and Strategic Projects Director, Climate and Health Alliance:

"We’re thrilled that the WA Department of Health has established a Sustainable Development Unit and joined GGHH. Healthcare produces about 7% of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, driving dangerous climate change and threatening health and lives. It’s really encouraging to see the Department taking strong action to reduce emissions, prepare for the impacts of climate change, tackle inequality and protect health.

"GGHH looks forward to working with the WA Department of Health to achieve their sustainability goals, while protecting the health of their population and environment."

Media contact: Remy Shergill, [email protected], 0423 075 895