| dc.description.abstract |
Health care facilities are extremely resource intensive operations due to the multitude
of equipment, environmental control requirements, and the constant monitoring required
for patient care. Since patient care is the top priority for health care facilities,
sustainability and resource efficiency had traditionally not been considered in their
construction and operation. This study assesses the cost-effectiveness of various
resource reduction opportunities at the Duke Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC), an outpatient
facility in the Duke University Health system. A whole-systems approach was embraced
and sustainability opportunities were assessed through five focus areas: energy use,
water use, waste generation, opportunities for recycling, and green purchasing. Based
on discussions with the client, background research, and various analyses, it was
decided that the study would focus primarily on energy, water, and waste for measuring
and improving sustainability at the ASC. Energy and water audits were conducted to
establish baseline energy use data. A waste characterization was performed to identify
the types of waste being generated and their volumes. In addition, a two month pilot
recycling program for mixed beverage containers and mixed paper was implemented in
order to assess the potential for a permanent recycling program. There are a number
of viable opportunities to reduce resource consumption as well as costs in the areas
of energy, water, and waste. This study demonstrates opportunities to reduce overall
ASC resource usage. The detailed analysis shows that through technological and behavioral
changes, significant cost savings can be realized. The cost reductions estimated
from energy and water initiatives could be savings or applied to offset other environmental
improvements, such as the recycling program which would cost the Center $2,465 per
year but also offers many intangible benefits. The ASC can expect a total annual
savings of $8,582 based on our recommendations. In addition, these initiatives could
be expanded to find additional opportunities for savings at the ASC and throughout
Duke University.
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