As disaster season approaches, the increasing frequency and intensity of emergencies—exacerbated by the climate crisis—are becoming ever more apparent. August marks the beginning of peak Atlantic hurricane season, which experts predict will be “extremely active,” with one major storm already having made landfall this summer. In the last decade, the number of billion-dollar disasters has surged by 70%, and globally, 23.7 million people were displaced by disasters in 2021 alone. As the Red Cross faces escalating climate-related challenges, our commitment to mitigating our environmental footprint has never been stronger. We are dedicated to addressing the impacts of the climate crisis on our communities while enhancing our sustainability efforts to meet these growing demands.
In our ongoing efforts to address these challenges, we continue to build on the progress highlighted in last year’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report. This report showcased our strides in integrating sustainability into our operations and mission delivery. As one of the first humanitarian organizations to produce annual ESG reports, the Red Cross remains at the forefront of transparency and accountability in our environmental efforts.
Our commitment to a sustainable supply chain includes several key strategies:
- Fleet and Facilities: We are integrating solar projects and transitioning 169 sites across 16 states to renewable energy. Additionally, we are piloting electric vehicles to further cut down on emissions.
- Supplies and Water: Our efforts include reducing single-use water bottles, investing in low-flow water appliances, and aiming to decrease water consumption by 20% by 2027.
- Workforce Engagement: We are fostering a culture that supports our environmental goals, ensuring that our workforce is engaged and aligned with our sustainability initiatives.
Over the course of 2023, these efforts resulted in an 8% reduction in carbon emissions. We eagerly anticipate the 2024 ESG report, launching in December, which will outline our continued progress towards our goals. By 2027, we aim to have 80% of our facilities operating on renewable resources, further demonstrating our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact.
In addition to our organizational efforts, we are excited to offer an on-demand continuing education opportunity through our SUCCESS® online learning platform–tailored for physicians, nursing, and laboratory professionals associated with Red Cross customers–called Sustainability and the American Red Cross. This course is designed for those interested in investigating or implementing sustainability programs within their facilities. It covers core components of a sustainability program and identifies potential opportunities for reducing carbon emissions, waste, and water consumption within your organization. Find the course here.
Never used SUCCESS® before?
SUCCESS® is the Red Cross’s online learning platform for transfusion medicine professionals associated with Red Cross customers, offering flexible, on-demand courses and webinars. As a leader in transfusion medicine education, SUCCESS® helps you earn CME credit, CEU (laboratory) credit, or nursing continuing professional development contact hours at your own pace. Ready to elevate your professional capabilities? Register here and take the next step in advancing sustainability within your organization.
By coming together, we can advance our shared commitment to a sustainable future while continuing to provide critical support during disaster season and beyond.
References:
2. 2023_ESG_Report_FINAL.pdf (redcross.org)
