Medline's Annual Sustainability Report: Progress Towards a Greener Healthcare Supply Chain

In its latest annual sustainability report, Medline has made significant strides in promoting environmental responsibility and building a resilient healthcare supply chain. Released in early September 2025, the report outlines the company’s latest initiatives and achievements in making healthcare more sustainable while supporting the communities it serves.

Key Initiatives and Achievements

One notable achievement highlighted in the report is Medline ReNewal's reprocessing of over 2.2 million medical devices in 2024 alone. This initiative restores medical devices to their original quality, functionality, and sterility according to rigorous FDA standards, thus supporting healthcare providers in their sustainability goals. This program not only reduces waste but also assures healthcare providers of high-quality devices, which is crucial in a sector where safety and reliability are paramount.

Jim Boyle, Medline’s CEO, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into every aspect of operations, stating, "Sustainability is increasingly integrated into our operations and reflected in how we support our customers." This approach is evident in various operational strategies including supply chain management, logistics optimization, and community engagement.

Climate Risk Assessment

A major part of Medline's sustainability progress has been the completion of its first global climate risk assessment. This assessment identified key climate risks based on guidelines from the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). It serves as a framework for Medline to consistently evaluate its impact and plan a formal decarbonization strategy moving forward. The company aims to conduct annual climate assessments to continuously improve its risk management practices.

Expanding Reprocessing and Packaging Solutions

Medline has also expanded its ReNewal program, adding six new FDA 510(k)-cleared product categories in 2024. This addition fosters the reuse of medical devices across various clinical areas, thus further enhancing sustainability in the healthcare sector.

In another innovative step, the company has piloted a sustainable packaging solution aimed at reducing plastic waste. The initiative, implemented at Medline's distribution center in Grayslake, Illinois, focuses on moving away from plastic fillers in favor of 100% paper-based materials. This pilot program is a partnership with Ranpak, a leader in sustainable packaging, highlighting Medline’s commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint.

Community Engagement and Volunteer Efforts

In addition to its environmental initiatives, Medline strongly emphasizes corporate social responsibility. In 2024, employees collectively volunteered over 7,200 hours supporting more than 70 charitable organizations across the United States. This dedication aligns with Medline's belief in investing in the communities where its employees live and work. By expanding access to care for vulnerable populations, Medline demonstrates its commitment to both healthcare and social equity.

Moving Forward

Francesca Olivier, vice president of sustainability at Medline, reiterated that sustainability is a vital part of achieving better health outcomes and building a resilient healthcare system. The report showcases Medline’s ongoing dedication to being a proactive partner that not only responds to challenges but also seeks opportunities to effect meaningful change for both people and the planet.

In conclusion, Medline's annual sustainability report sets a framework for continuous improvement and accountability in maintaining a greener, more sustainable healthcare supply chain. By focusing on both environmental initiatives and community engagement, Medline is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable practices within the healthcare industry. For those interested in exploring the full details of Medline's sustainability initiatives, the complete report can be accessed from their official website.