#Singapore #National University Hospital #Green Hospitals

NUH Recognized as a Top Green Hospital

The National University Hospital (NUH) has earned a prestigious recognition in the inaugural World's Greenest Hospitals 2026 ranking published by Newsweek and Statista. It stands out as the only hospital in Singapore to receive the highest rating of five leaves, affirming its role as a leader in sustainable healthcare.

This accolade places NUH among just 36 hospitals globally that attained this distinction. The selection process evaluated over 250 hospitals across 36 countries, considering various factors such as sustainability performance, expert recommendations, certifications, and commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Commitment to Sustainability

NUH's achievement reflects its dedicated efforts to incorporate sustainability into every facet of its operations and healthcare delivery. In 2025, it became the first hospital worldwide to receive the Healthcare Sustainability Certification from both the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the International Hospital Federation’s Geneva Sustainability Centre. These certifications recognize significant progress in environmental governance and health equity initiatives.

To further its sustainability agenda, NUH has set ambitious goals, including reaching a 60% recycling rate by 2030 and striving for net-zero emissions by 2045. This commitment is demonstrated through various initiatives aimed at reducing plastic use, optimizing energy consumption, and adopting sustainable clinical practices that significantly lower waste while maintaining the quality of patient care.

Significant Achievements

Among its notable sustainability initiatives, NUH has successfully reduced plastic bag usage in its pharmacies by more than 50%, resulting in annual savings of around 400,000 bags. Furthermore, they have cut the use of a high-emission anaesthetic gas by 98%, equating to a reduction of over 400 cars from city roads annually. Additionally, the hospital has achieved a remarkable near 30% reduction in waste and has more than doubled its recycling rate since 2020.

A Vision for the Future

By taking these strides, NUH showcases the potential for environmental sustainability to coexist with high-quality healthcare services. Its approach not only aims to enhance operational efficiency but also seeks to establish a resilient healthcare system which can be sustained for future generations.

About NUH

Established in 1985, the National University Hospital is Singapore’s university hospital, with a legacy that extends back to the founding of the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine in 1905. As the principal teaching hospital, it plays a critical role in shaping future healthcare professionals through a commitment to research and education.

The hospital is equipped with over 1,200 beds and caters to more than one million patients annually across more than 50 medical specialties, fostering an environment where advanced medical practices and compassionate care go hand in hand.

Conclusion

In achieving this recognition, NUH not only elevates its status within the global healthcare community but also sets a benchmark for other institutions aiming to prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising patient care. This commitment can lead to a transformative shift in how healthcare systems operate, bringing environmental considerations to the forefront of medical practices.