Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital recognized for sustainability practices

DOWNERS GROVE - Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital was recently named one of 50 "Greenest Hospitals in America" for reducing its environmental footprint.

According to Becker's Hospital Review, Good Samaritan Hospital is leading the industry in sustainable innovation, eco-friendly design and green improvements.

"We are proud to have earned this prestigious award for our environmentally-friendly practices," said Cindy Keith, green team co-chair and quality improvement/safety analyst for Good Samaritan Hospital. "This award proves that we are leading the industry in sustainability practices that are truly making a difference in patient care and the wellbeing of our associates."

The hospital has reduced energy consumption by nearly 13 percent from 2008 to 2015 by implementing the following tactics:

• Investing in a cleaning robot to thoroughly sanitize areas using ultraviolet light instead of harsh chemicals

• Increasing the use of Green Seal-certified chemicals

• Installing LED lights and occupancy sensors in all operating suites

• Encouraging departments to donate or swap unneeded office supplies

• Modifying the drainage system across campus to reduce water use and runoff

• Installing an electric car charging station in one of the parking garages.

Becker's Hospital Review named Good Samaritan Hospital as one of the 50th greenest hospitals in American in 2013 as well.