Allina Health has been recognized with multiple awards from Practice Greenhealth, including the 2024 System for Change Award for the second year in a row. The organization’s manager of Environmental Sustainability, Suzanne Savanick Hansen, emphasized the importance of initiatives that improve the health of the community by reducing their impact on the environment.
Thirteen health sites within the Allina Health system were acknowledged for their environmental efforts. Hansen mentioned that a climate action plan was implemented two years ago, with a goal of reducing greenhouse emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The organization is focusing on energy efficiency and waste reduction projects to reach these goals.
Many of Allina Health’s sustainability practices are not immediately visible to patients and the public, but efforts such as transitioning to LED lighting, boosting recycling initiatives, and implementing energy-saving tactics are underway. Unique projects, such as maintaining honeybee hives from Kinnickkinnic Bees at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute in Golden Valley, further demonstrate Allina Health’s commitment to sustainability.
Abbott Northwestern Hospital has also taken steps to support pollinators by planting native, bee and butterfly-friendly plants on their premises. Hansen affirmed that Allina Health is dedicated to continuing their work towards energy efficiency and waste reduction, aligning with their overall mission to create a healthier community.