BDMS Selected for the DJSI World Index in 2024. (Photo: BDMS)
The healthcare industry is a high energy-consuming sector, contributing 4.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
In Thailand, many hospitals have adopted electricity usage management systems and energy-saving measures to reduce carbon emissions. Some hospitals are also supporting the development of eco-friendly medicine packaging and installing solar panels, while real estate developers aim to create eco-friendly hospitals.
BDMS only Thai hospital in ASEAN included in DJSI
Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), Thailand's largest healthcare provider, has garnered significant attention for its sustainability efforts.
In 2024, BDMS was once again selected for the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), making it the only Thai company in the healthcare equipment and services industry to be included, and one of only three companies in the Asia-Pacific region. The other two companies are from Japan.
BDMS Group Chairman Paramaporn Prasatthong-Osoth has led the charge for green healthcare, unveiling six major sustainable transformation strategies. The group's goal is to establish a sustainable healthcare industry chain by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050. As of the first half of 2024, over 50% of BDMS-affiliated healthcare facilities have installed solar systems, reducing carbon emissions by 10,000 tons annually.
With the Thai government's strong push for medical tourism, BDMS has rapidly expanded, operating 59 hospitals in Thailand and Cambodia.
Its main foreign patients come from Cambodia, China, the U.S., Japan, and the U.K. The ongoing BDMS Silver Wellness & Residence project, including a health center, retail, hotel, and residential areas, is expected to be completed in five years.
As of the first half of 2024, over 50% of BDMS-affiliated healthcare facilities have installed solar systems, reducing carbon emissions by 10,000 tons annually. (Photo: BDMS's 2021 Sustainability Report)
THG installs solar panels, develops eco-friendly medical equipment
Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG) has set its net-zero target for 2030. The group has adopted various carbon reduction measures, including partnering with petrochemical companies to research how recycled plastic and bioplastic materials can be used to create medical product packaging, such as medicine bags, contributing to a circular economy and potentially increasing farmers' income.
THG is also planning to replace its lighting systems with energy-efficient LED lights and install rooftop solar panels in its hospitals to increase the use of renewable energy to 20%. In the transportation sector, the hospitals are encouraging the use of electric vehicles by adding more charging stations.
Additionally, real estate developer Pruksa Holding’s Vimut Hospital is setting up an orthopedic center in Thong Lor, Bangkok. The design concept aims to create a new park for the capital, with a significant number of trees that not only help cool the environment but also absorb carbon dioxide, providing patients with a relaxing and therapeutic atmosphere.
Source: Bangkok Post, Khaosod, Bloomberg
