At HonorHealth, we believe that caring for our patients and the planet goes hand in hand. Recently recognized as one of the “4 best eco-friendly companies to work for in Arizona” by AZ Big Media in 2024, HonorHealth’s Sustainability Committee continues to work together on initiatives across the network that reflect the organization’s commitment to the environment and wise use of resources. This Earth Day, we’re excited to share some milestones that are bringing us one step closer to a sustainable future.

HonorHealth’s recycling program in action

Sowing the seeds of sustainability

HonorHealth has responsibly defined its environmental sustainability approach through strategic resource management and long-term planning. In 2023, our reprocessing program saved $1.8 million and diverted 27 tons of waste from landfills by reprocessing 10.3% of eligible products.

Innovative recycling and resource conservation

Our commitment to sustainable practices continues to grow with new initiatives:

• Plastic recycling pilot: Launched in late 2024 at Thompson Peak Medical Center, this program collects and recycles plastic waste from operating rooms. The recycled materials are repurposed into community items such as park benches and playground equipment. While we’re still refining the operational process, early results are promising, and we hope to expand the program to other HonorHealth facilities.
• Water conservation excellence: Our Construction and Facilities Department is implementing advanced air-cooling chiller systems and vacuum plumbing at Deer Valley Medical Center, projected to significantly save on water usage.
• Anesthesia gas management: Our anesthesiologists championed an initiative to reduce desflurane usage by 60% utilizing environmentally healthier inhaled anesthesia gases.

Team members with collected recyclable materials at Thompson Peak Medical Center

Partnering for community impact

Our sustainability efforts extend throughout the community through strategic partnerships:

• Our composting program at Desert Mission Food Bank diverts approximately 1,200 pounds of waste weekly.
• Our Food Services Department partners with Shamrock/Produce Alliance to source local produce, saving $534,000 annually while reducing our carbon footprint.
• We’ve reduced delivery days to decrease emissions and implemented eco-friendly paper goods.
• Plant-based menu options have increased in our cafes and catering services, supporting both our Blue Zones initiative and sustainability goals by promoting foods that require fewer resources and produce lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Our Blue Zones collaboration, including new walkways that promote both physical and environmental consciousness.
• Our Sustainability Committee fosters a healthcare collaboration between Valley Integrated Delivery Networks, universities and municipalities to share best practices. This collaboration leads to two annual community impact events.

Looking ahead: Our sustainability roadmap

Upcoming initiatives include expanding eco-friendly paper products, aligning sustainability efforts with our new East Valley medical centers, and launching a Sustainability Internship Program with ASU in 2025.

By working together, we’re not only reducing our ecological footprint, we’re also improving community health for generations to come. Let’s make sustainability a daily priority through teamwork and innovation!

Interested in volunteering with the HonorHealth Sustainability Committee?

The HonorHealth Sustainability Committee is always looking for volunteers to help with upcoming community projects. If you are interested in being contacted for any upcoming opportunities, please complete our Volunteer Interest Form.

Feedback or suggestions?

Email us at sustainability@honorhealth.com.