The Canadian College of Health Leaders is proud to announce that Island Health was named recipient of the 2025 Energy and Environmental Stewardship Award for their outstanding commitment to sustainability and climate resilience. As part of their 2020-2025 Strategic Framework, Island Health has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing energy usage, preserving natural resources, and minimizing waste. The Energy, Environment, and Climate Change team has made significant strides in achieving these goals, including reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 16% and lowering water consumption by 30% despite a 55% increase in floor area since 2010. By adopting renewable natural gas, implementing energy-efficient lighting, and expanding food composting programs, Island Health is leading the way in sustainable healthcare practices while enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.
The team’s efforts extend far beyond energy conservation. Island Health has diverted over 2,500 tonnes of materials from landfills through innovative waste diversion initiatives such as the Reusable Gown Program, which diverts 1.5 million disposable gowns annually. Additionally, the team has successfully phased out high-GWP anesthetic gases and introduced clinical emissions reductions, which have further reduced the organization’s carbon footprint. Island Health’s sustainability initiatives also focus on resource conservation, promoting clean transportation options, and encouraging staff and patient engagement through various educational and communication strategies. These actions are all part of Island Health’s broader mission to meet and exceed the province’s 2030 GHG emissions reduction targets ahead of schedule.
A standout project that exemplifies Island Health’s leadership in sustainability is the design of the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project, which will become BC’s first fully electric hospital and Canada’s first Zero Carbon Challenge facility. This groundbreaking initiative reflects the organization’s forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship and climate change mitigation. With their continued investment in sustainable infrastructure, including $10 million allocated for emission reduction projects in 2024, Island Health is setting a powerful example for the healthcare sector. The Energy, Environment, and Climate Change team’s exceptional leadership is transforming Island Health into a model of environmental responsibility, setting new standards for the future of healthcare sustainability.
The award is sponsored by Trane Canada. Trane, the world leader in creating and sustaining safe, comfortable and energy efficient environments – improves the performance of buildings around the world. Trane solutions optimize indoor environments with a broad portfolio of energy efficient heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, building and contracting services, parts support and advanced controls for commercial buildings.
This award is part of our CCHL National Awards Program and will be presented at the Honouring Health Leadership event on June 15, 2025.
For further information and/or to arrange an interview, please contact: Christian Coulombe
Vice-President, Marketing & Membership
Canadian College of Health Leaders
613-235-7219, ext. 213
ccoulombe@cchl-ccls.ca
