AB011. Assessing hospital executive’s awareness of climate change and proposing sustainable strategies: survey-based approaches

Background: Climate change presents significant threats to human health and is exacerbated by the healthcare sector, which contributes 5–10% of global carbon emissions. Despite its critical role in safeguarding health, the sector remains a substantial emitter, accounting for 9.58% of Thailand’s total emissions. Hospital executives, as key decision-makers, are positioned to lead mitigation efforts. The objective of this study is to understand the perspectives and awareness of Thai hospital executive about the nexus of climate change and healthcare.

Methods: An online self-administered cross-sectional survey (in Thai) was conducted among 60 healthcare executives across 12 area health regions in Thailand between May and June 2023. The questionnaire, informed by a literature review, assessed their knowledge, attitudes, and strategies for adaptation and mitigation of climate change. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and R version 4.4.2.

Results: Fifty-five healthcare executives (56.4% directors and 43.6% deputy directors) responded. Among them, 83.6% showed strong concern about climate change, and 54.6% believed cross-sectoral policies need more cohesion. Over half reported lacking electricity usage records, indicating no baseline for greenhouse gas emissions. Key emission sources included electricity, transportation, waste, and lab testing. Support for climate action was strong—54.5% for the Ministry of Health’s leadership and 100% for hospitals’ role. Proposed solutions included solar power, electric vehicles, waste management, and telemedicine, though budget and implementation barriers remain.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate strong awareness and readiness among Thai hospital executives to adopt sustainable practices. Coherent cross-sectoral policies with adequate funding and support are crucial. Hospitals must also establish reliable baseline data on energy use and emissions to effectively track and guide climate actions. Future research can inform strategic plans and cost-effective interventions to help hospitals achieve net zero goals.

Keywords: Awareness study; climate change and health; greenhouse gas emissions; healthcare sector