GREEN TEAM
Holy Cross Hospital Goes Green!
On a mission to improve the environmental footprint in every part of the facility, Holy Cross Hospital has partnered with Antos Environmental Corp. to focus on waste minimization for the hospital.
Green Team & Green Initiatives:
- Water SavingsHoly Cross Hospital now uses 200,000 to 300,000 fewer gallons of water per year without impacting hospital operations.
- Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficient light bulbs and ballasts were installed in reception areas and offices throughout Holy Cross. Use of electricity is curtailed throughout the day.
- Red Bag WasteThe incinerator was retired at Holy Cross, which has resulted in 62% less medical waste. Reduced volume of Regulated Medical Waste has resulted in better packaging options and more efficient handling of the waste.
- RecyclingRecycling is on the upswing in the cafeteria with the introduction of environmentally friendly products. This effort has resulted in waste reduction of the following units of products:
- Foam plates & bowls: 380,000
- Disposable lids for patient bowls and mugs: 325,000
- Cold foam drinking cups: 95,000
- Plastic silverware: 750,000
"I would like to briefly share some major accomplishments that have taken place at Holy Cross Hospital since we invited a partnership with Antos Environmental in 2009. Red bag reduction from 70,000 lbs per month to 24,000 lb per month. Recycle education has changed Associates' behavioral patterns. Enhanced awareness of the environment is consistent on all three shifts. Twenty-four hour staff training has proven to be very efficient. Costs have been reduced through new waste systems and renegotiating hauler contracts. Antos Environmental staff is knowledgeable and support Holy Cross Hospital's mission. Antos Environmental has opened the eyes of this organization, and we have realized the potential cost savings for the facility and its impact on the Earth."— Sam Reyes, Director of Environmental Services, Holy Cross Hospital
"The Core Value Mentors have embraced this project whole heartily. They have encouraged and kept their department Associates updated on the Antos Project. Many Associates have offered suggestions of ways to conserve and recycle in their work areas. This latest phase of recycling is including more departments and there is hospital wide support. This is one way of living our Core Value of Stewardship."— Sister Rita Levasseur, Vice President of Mission, Holy Cross Hospital
