Thonburi Healthcare Group Plc (THG) is exploring sustainable solutions for medical packaging, including medical plastic bags, as part of its initiative to become an eco-friendly hospital and reduce carbon emissions.
Collaborating with a petrochemical company, THG is investigating ways to incorporate recycled plastics into the production of new medicine packages. Nalin Vanasin, THG’s chief sustainability officer, expressed the organization’s commitment to using environmentally friendly plastic packaging in alignment with carbon neutrality and net-zero initiatives.
Thailand’s pledge at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference to accelerate climate action towards carbon neutrality by 2050 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2065 has inspired THG to evaluate various options for creating green medical packaging. This includes considering the use of recycled plastics or organic materials, which not only contributes to sustainability but also benefits farmers by adding value to agricultural products.
The ongoing study will determine the feasibility of different raw materials, allocate resources for development, assess production capacity, and select THG hospitals to implement these sustainable practices. Additionally, THG is exploring the use of recycled garbage bags and is in discussions with suppliers regarding this environmental initiative.
Apart from focusing on sustainable packaging, THG is embracing renewable energy solutions within its facilities. Plans include installing rooftop solar panels to increase the proportion of renewable energy usage to 20% and transitioning from traditional fuel-powered vehicles to electric cars. By promoting the adoption of electric vehicles and expanding charging infrastructure, THG aims to achieve its net-zero emissions goal by 2030.
Leading the charge in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital initiated a green campaign in 2022, demonstrating THG’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.