The International Hospital Federation awards Maria Middelares with a bronze award for ESG efforts

Caring for tomorrow today

Every year, the International Hospital Federation (IHF) awards recognize exceptional efforts in quality, efficiency, and sustainability worldwide. For this edition, a whopping 500 files were submitted from 37 countries across seven categories. The Awards Committee, consisting of health care leaders from around the world, evaluated the entries based on originality and innovation, intended impact, scalability, and scientific basis.

Maria Middelares was awarded a bronze prize for the Ashikaga-Nikken Excellence Award for Low-Carbon Healthcare. This award recognizes innovative approaches that contribute to sustainable healthcare, reduce carbon emissions, promote environmental friendliness, and improve the well-being of patients, staff, and society.

Caring for tomorrow today

In 2022, Maria Middelares integrated sustainable healthcare into its strategic objectives. A thorough analysis identified where the greatest opportunities lie, with the most impact on patients, the community, and the environment. Under the motto "Caring for tomorrow today", the ESG principles have since been further developed. A good example of this are the daily efforts to create a stimulating work environment where everyone is welcome. For this, Maria Middelares has already received recognitions as Top Employer and the reference certificate Inclusive Entrepreneurship.

In this IHF Award, the focus is on the structural efforts for a sustainable environment. Led by the Greenteam and supported by the steering group E, employees at all levels work to integrate as many environmentally conscious practices as possible. This involves initiatives that contribute to optimizing energy consumption, reducing waste production, and reducing carbon emissions.

"As an organization, we consciously chose to anchor the ESG principles in our strategic objectives. We want to take our responsibility and build together towards a greener and healthier future. Striving for sustainability is not only good for the environment, it improves patient care and contributes to a healthier, greener community. The IHF Awards raise awareness among healthcare organizations worldwide to handle people and resources sustainably, and stimulate the exchange of good practices. It is an honor to be recognized as a Belgian hospital for our efforts."

Prof. Pascal Verdonck, Chairman of the Governing Body of Maria Middelares

"Our strategy is reflected in concrete actions in various areas: from our energy-efficient infrastructure and sustainable commuting initiatives to waste reduction and recycling initiatives. Thanks in part to the multidisciplinary 'greenteam', which embodies the motto 'caring for tomorrow today', these initiatives are put into practice. It's a collective effort, with the involvement and dedication of the board to employees. It's inspiring to see how our entire organization works together to achieve these goals."

Christophe Mouton, CEO of Maria Middelares

About IHF

The International Hospital Federation (IHF) is a global organization that represents hospitals and health institutions. Their goal is to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare. With its annual awards ceremony, the IHF promotes international knowledge sharing and cooperation.