Operational Methodology for Climate Action in Healthcare

Climate change is increasingly affecting human health and putting pressure on healthcare systems, while the healthcare sector itself contributes significantly to global emissions.  

To address this issue, we developed, in collaboration with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the Climate Action Toolbox for Healthcare and an Operational Methodology (this document) to empower health authorities in operationalising comprehensive climate-resilient and low-carbon actions within their health system and facilities.  

In three phases (preparation, analysis, tailored technical collaboration), we guide partners through a structured, contextualized, and collaborative process to design, implement, finance, monitor, and evaluate effective climate actions. The methodology specifically targets the management teams of healthcare systems, facilities, and services – such as personnel of health authorities and hospital directors – who are responsible for planning and operation decision-making. This approach includes capacity-development sessions to enable them to embed climate resilience into routine health service planning and operations. 

The Accelerator positions itself as a knowledge partner to enable the actions and capacity development of its counterparts. It accompanies them in the capitalisation and dissemination of lessons learned. 

The Operational Methodology is pilot tested with the Accelerator and AFD partners. It will be upgraded based on lessons learnt. 

Cover photo: Guillaume Piron/Unsplash