Cork University Hospital (CUH) has scooped a Green Flag on behalf of the international Foundation for Environmental Education.

The flag was raised by Minister of State Kathleen Lynch, Department of Health.

CUH was recognised for:

• Reductions in waste of 11% despite an overall 10% increase in hospital activity in that period

• 860 MWhr decrease in gas consumption

• 1,185 MWhr decrease in electricity consumption

• 785 tonne decrease in CO2.

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CUH Chief Executive, Tony McNamara, said: "By creating a healthier environment for patients, staff and visitors, we are taking an important step in achieving the best outcomes for our patients and supporting community health.

"Specific changes in the ways we operate will lay the groundwork for better health – inside and outside our hospital walls. In recent years we have endeavoured to transform the design, construction and operations of CUH campus facilities to minimise environmental impacts and foster healthy, healing environments.

"With the assistance of staff we have also improved energy efficiency and waste management practices. We can quickly adopt proven practices and generate cost savings that allow us to devote more resources to do what we do best: provide high-quality, safe healthcare services."

(CD/JP)