Sustainable and Resilient Future Hospital Models in the Light of Climate Change and Resultant Quality of Life

Abstract

Climate change is a long-term shift in temperature and weather patterns. The United Nations states that since the late 18th century, human activities - primarily the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas - have been the primary cause of climate change. Across the different sectors, the greenhouse effect is most prominent which forms a blanket wrapped around the Earth, trapping the sun's heat and raising temperatures. According to the UN, clearing of land and deforestation is responsible for increased carbon dioxide levels in the environment. The main sectors responsible for greenhouse gas emission are energy, transport, construction, agriculture, healthcare, and high land use. The healthcare industry is the largest source of greenhouse gasses, accounting for almost 5% of global greenhouse emissions. This chapter reviews the theories and models proposed by national and international organizations like United Nations and World Health Organization to explore and explain the impact of hospitals on climate change and the short-term and long-term impact on sustainability.