Green values |
Make a commitment
-Where are the ideal places to start? (Pick low-hanging fruit) -What values can you identify that will assist you as you proceed? -What research or measurement techniques might be useful? Consider involving residents
Consider curriculum concepts for teaching practices (eg, a quality assurance project for residents). Exemplify an environmentally friendly clinic for students and residents Join with allies (eg, public health, community, municipalities)
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Waste management |
Reduce
-Reuse paper printed on 1 side, provided confidential information is not released -Set your printer to double-sided printing. Do audits to ensure that staff and the IT department reset any forms that result in wasted paper -Ensure there is no wasted content on frequently printed documents -Do a mail audit (What journals or other publications are redundant or can be received by e-mail rather than paper?) -Refuse unnecessary packaging from pharmaceutical companies -Find a solution to paper coffee and tea cups in your setting -Contact the Canadian Direct Marketing Association (416 391-2362) to request junk mail be stopped
Reuse
Recycle
-Recycle paper, glass, plastic, and aluminum; keep recycling bins in areas where these materials are used -Use green-bin (organics) system, if available; this will require staff cooperation and support -Ensure your recycling system is working (What percentage of your recycling actually ends up recycled?)
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Energy management |
Choose energy-efficient equipment Turn down the thermostat at night and on weekends Set your air conditioner 2 degrees higher and your furnace 2 degrees lower Use energy-efficient lighting Turn off computers and other electronic equipment when not in use; set computers to sleep mode at end of day Ensure that windows and exterior doors are sealed Use motion sensors or timed lighting for unoccupied rooms; encourage “lights-off” behaviour in common spaces Use natural light as much as possible Consider a tankless hot water heater on a timer
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Buildings and green space |
Consider less-toxic materials such as cork, hardwood, or linoleum rather than carpet Use paint that is low in volatile organic compounds Consider furniture that does not emit formaldehyde (natural wood or environmentally constructed options) Choose pest management options that are safe for patients, staff, and the environment Choose plants that are drought resistant and do not rely on herbicides or watering to thrive Consider a rooftop garden—might be an option for cooling
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Toxin management |
Ensure safe management of patient drugs and encourage same behaviour from patients. Remind patients of “not down the drain”; be willing to accept unwanted pills; and have a program for safe disposal of drugs Replace mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers with nonmercury alternatives; dispose of mercury products safely Use effective nontoxic cleaning solutions
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Water management |
Fix leaks Install restrictors (aerators) on taps Reduce or refuse the use of bottled water; consider a department policy against bottled water at events Consider reducing water coolers and install filters on tap water
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Transportation (public transit, car pool, bike and car sharing, parking, etc) |
Find ways to communicate options other than single-driver vehicle options Assist staff and learners with car-pooling options Ensure there is a safe place for bike storage Ensure safety is addressed for all means of transit Encourage teleconferences and videoconferences where feasible Ensure staff have change rooms and showers
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Responsible community members |
Be mindful of space sharing, noise pollution (eg, HVAC systems), light pollution, and organization of meetings (reduce traffic by using technology; consider peak traffic and meeting times)
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Purchasing and procurement (includes green cleaning) |
Purchase environmentally friendly paper with high post-consumer content and chlorine-free bleach; environmentally friendly medical equipment Use certified environmental products such as those approved by EcoLogo, Green Seal, and Forest Stewardship Council
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Partnerships and other green initiatives |
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