The Italian Centre for Sustainable Healthcare (CSH Italia): Promoting Environmental Sustainability Through Education, Research, and Advocacy

Abstract

Introduction. Healthcare services contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, resource consumption and waste production. Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, can therefore play a key role in promoting environmentally sustainable practices. In this context, the Italian Centre for Sustainable Healthcare APS (CSH Italia) was established in 2024 to integrate sustainability into healthcare. Its mission is to support the transition toward a system that protects both human health and the environment by encouraging professionals and organizations to adopt sustainable practices.

Methods. CSH Italia was founded by an interdisciplinary group of healthcare professionals, mainly nurses, together with engineers and sustainability experts. The association works through three areas: education and training, research and innovation, and advocacy for sustainable healthcare policies.

Results. CSH Italia collaborates with the UK Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, adapts Nurse Climate Challenge resources for Italian professionals, and contributes to Green Operating Room recommendations with Choosing Wisely Italia. The association also developed two tools to support sustainability in surgical settings: the Italian Green Theatre Checklist and a questionnaire exploring knowledge and sustainability perception.