In photo: MakatiMed employees take part in the Electronic Waste Drive initiative by disposing of old electronics.
Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) continues to champion environmental sustainability in the healthcare industry through its established Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Council. Since its formation in October 2023, the council has led various hospital-wide initiatives in partnership with several Divisions, including Procurement, Facilities Management & Engineering, Creative, Communications & Sales Services, and Human Resources Management and Development.
With strong support from the MakatiMed community and its partners, these efforts have resulted in significant waste reduction and recycling gains. From Q4 2023 to the end of 2024, a 20% increase in waste diversion from landfills was achieved, repurposing 63,574 kilograms of waste—marking a 9% increase compared to 2023.
To promote proper waste disposal, recycling, and sustainability, several key initiatives were introduced. The Electronic Waste Drive, in collaboration with PLDT, SMART, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), facilitated the proper disposal of e-waste, diverting nearly 670 kilograms of electronic waste from landfills. Paperback Friday ensured the proper disposal of shredded documents in compliance with the Data Privacy Act, resulting in the recycling of 38,000 kilograms of paper waste. The Plastic Waste Reduction initiative, driven by information campaigns, training sessions, and department-led recycling projects, enabled the collection of 1,564 kilograms of plastic waste for recycling.
A hospital-wide 5S Clean-up Drive was also implemented, focusing on the proper disposal of hazardous and recyclable waste. This initiative led to the treatment of 756 kilograms of expired medications, medical devices, sharps, paper waste, and e-waste through a DENR-accredited facility. Through MakatiMed’s Partners’ Buyback Programs, collaborations with suppliers and vendors resulted in the return of 977 kilograms of alcohol bottles and the endorsement of 34 kilograms of insulin pens to Sanofi for recycling. Additionally, Green Wall Ecobins were installed at the Tower 2 Lobby to encourage responsible waste disposal among patients and visitors, with 74 kilograms of waste collected for recycling as of writing.
Through these efforts, MakatiMed reinforces its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable healthcare practices. Plans are in place to further expand waste management programs, ensuring that sustainability remains a key pillar of operations.
