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By Vikas Vij — A PLoS ONE study published last year showed that if the US healthcare sector were ranked as a nation, it would be the world’s 13th-largest carbon emitter, more than all of the UK. In the last 10 years, GHG emissions for the US healthcare sector have gone up by more than 30 percent.
Looking at the carbon emission challenges of the global healthcare sector, Schneider Electric has partnered with GSK to manage an online community that gives the healthcare leader’s suppliers information and tools to improve environmental performance through energy, water and waste management.
The online community called the GSK Supplier Exchange includes 360 of GSK’s largest suppliers. Schneider Electric will manage the community and help these suppliers in their efforts to improve energy efficiency. The Exchange delivers informative content, and provides a forum for collaboration and networking, helping accelerate sustainability.
Building on a 14-year relationship, this program will help GSK reach its goal of a 25 percent reduction in value chain emissions by 2020. The company is aiming for a carbon-neutral value chain by 2050. With more than half of emissions tied to purchased materials and services, GSK recognized the need to help its suppliers reduce their carbon footprint.
Matt Wilson, Head of the Environmental Sustainability Centre of Excellence at GSK, said that the company has partnered with Schneider Electric to develop sustainability expertise that will help its suppliers expand their knowledge on sustainability topics and practical solutions.
Schneider Electric will create and curate content for the Supplier Exchange including webinars, case studies, newsletters and Q&A – covering topics from sustainability reporting to renewable energy opportunities.
Steve Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Energy and Sustainability Services at Schneider Electric said that GSK’s approach of building a connected and dynamic community is an ideal way to drive action. The company will use its experience to educate, consult, and ultimately deliver carbon reduction and associated savings for GSK and each of the businesses in its value chain.
Source: Schneider Electric
