As we commemorate a decade of the Health Care Climate Challenge, we're proud to spotlight institutions that have consistently led the way in climate action. Today, we begin our "10-Year Health Care Climate Challenge Leaders" series by honoring Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation (Taiwan), a true pioneer and inspiration for health care facilities worldwide.
The institution’s commitment to environmental stewardship is nothing short of remarkable. As part of the first cohort of hospitals to join the Climate Challenge in 2015 and Race to Zero in 2021, it was already at the forefront of the movement. It participated in the Climate Learning Initiative in 2023, sharing its experience and strategy to achieve net zero by 2050. It further demonstrated its leadership by attending a Global Gathering of health care climate leaders in Pittsburgh, United States, where institutions from around the world discussed lessons learned and challenges, contributing to the Guidance for health care climate action that emerged from the initiative. This just further demonstrates its dedication to collaboration and progress.
The hospital's impact is clearly illustrated in the case studies they've submitted, showcasing innovative solutions and tangible results. From revolutionizing waste reduction and championing active transportation to pioneering greywater recycling systems, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation has consistently demonstrated that health care can be a powerful force for environmental change.
Its active engagement in numerous conferences organized by Health Care Without Harm South East Asia further amplifies their influence in the region, with notable examples including:
- Green Hospitals Asia Conference, 2017
- Green Hospitals Assembly (Taiwan): Leadership and Advocacy in Action, 2021
- International Scientific Conference on Climate Change and Health, 6th Asia-Pacific Green Healthcare System Conference, 2024.
Moreover, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation’s Dr. Ming-Nan Lin, Vice Superintendent, serves on the Global Green and Healthy Hospitals Asia Regional Coordinating Council, further contributing to the strategic direction of sustainable health care in the region.
With four Gold Awards received in the Health Care Climate Challenge, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation’s journey inspires us all to push the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable health care. We celebrate their achievements and look forward to sharing more stories of leadership and innovation throughout this campaign!