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Going Green and Why It Matters in Healthcare Real Estate

By Ellen Flaming, Vice President, Property Management

Sustainable healthcare real estate is more than a trend; it is a commitment to a greener, healthier future. Eco-friendly building practices and energy-efficient technologies are powerful tools for property managers to implement in their healthcare facilities to help reduce operational costs, enhance patient care, and minimize environmental impact.

Lower Operating Costs

Did you know that green buildings can reduce energy usage by up to 40%? By adopting green practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy sources and waste reduction strategies, healthcare facilities can realize significant savings on utility expenses over time. These savings can then be reinvested towards improving patient care and facility operations.

Improved Patient Health

The use of sustainable building materials, improved ventilation systems, and non-toxic cleaning products can greatly enhance the indoor air quality of healthcare facilities. Healthier, healing indoor environments, along with access to green spaces and natural light, can lead to faster patient recovery time, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being for patients, visitors, and staff.

Reduced Environmental Impact

As we develop medical outpatient buildings that help our growing communities, adopting green practices ensures compliance with increasing governmental regulations while taking advantage of financial incentives, rebates, grants, and tax breaks. Healthcare facilities that prioritize sustainable initiatives show a commitment to

environmental stewardship, strengthen community ties, and enhance the building’s reputation and competitiveness in the market.

A recent example of successfully integrating green practices to benefit both the environment and the local community is the exterior landscaping at Western Reserve Health Center in Hudson, Ohio, that Anchor completed in 2023. The landscaping package was led by John Weldon with Sunset Gardens, focusing on creating a landscape that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings while also minimizing weekly maintenance, thereby reducing emissions and the need for fertilizers. A unique feature is the installation of a natural bio-filtration system, composed of plant material, rock filtration cages, and basins. This system effectively filters water runoff from the parking lots and surrounding woodlands, helping to control stormwater runoff and protect the environment.