Race to Zero for Healthcare is an initiative led by Health Care Without Harm that mobilizes hospitals and health systems to make ambitious mitigation commitments to halve emissions by 2030, and achieve net-zero by 2050.
Originally launched in 2020 by the UN Climate High-Level Champions, the initiative is now led by Health Care Without Harm, ensuring continuity and strengthening the sector’s leadership in climate action. All members are committed to the same overarching goal: swiftly and fairly reducing emissions across all scopes in line with the Paris Agreement, with transparent action plans and robust near-term targets.
To date, more than 100 health care institutions representing the interests of over 15,000 hospitals and health centers in 30 countries have joined Race to Zero for Healthcare with Health Care Without Harm. As healers, they know that prevention and preparedness are essential to fighting the climate crisis and that the road to recovery begins with transformative climate solutions.
Since 2021, we have been building a robust coalition of health care institutions committed to zero emissions and creating a more inclusive and resilient economy. The Race to Zero for Healthcare is open to all health care institutions, including hospitals, health care systems, and health care facilities.
If your institution is interested in joining Race to Zero for Healthcare, it can do so through our Health Care Climate Challenge initiative.
By joining Race to Zero for Healthcare, health care institutions receive a membership in the Health Care Climate Challenge and Global Green and Healthy Hospitals (if your institution is not already a member). These networks provide access to a suite of tools, resources, and discussion groups to assist health care organizations in reducing their carbon footprint, implementing successful sustainability projects and programs, and achieving their decarbonization goals.
To join Race to Zero for Healthcare, institutions are invited to submit a letter stating a commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2050 and reporting annually on progress towards these goals.
For more information on Race to Zero for Healthcare, member requirements, and how to join, please see our FAQs.