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Targets and measures for water usage and quality improvement

Publikationsdatum: 27. March 2025
Letzte Änderung: 27. March, 2025

Example of target for water usage and quality improvement

By 2030, we will reduce our water consumption by 20% and wastewater production by 10%.

  • Measure 1Optimise cleaning and sterilisation processes

    Reduction in cleaning frequency: Conduct risk assessments to reduce weekly cleaning cycles while maintaining hygiene and quality standards.

    Grey water reuse: Develop systems for recycling grey water, such as process water or rainwater, for toilet flushing or garden irrigation, to minimise fresh water consumption.

    Optimisation of rinsing cycles: Continuously monitor and improve rinsing cycles to reduce water and detergent usage while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.


  • Measure 2Optimise cooling water systems

    Circulation pump installation: Fit circulation pumps in cooling circuits to enhance water usage efficiency and reduce overall consumption.

    Modular water infrastructure: Develop flexible, modular water systems that can adapt to varying needs and enable sustainable water usage.

    Treated water recycling: Employ technologies to recirculate treated water into cooling towers and reuse generator wastewater to reduce pressure on water resources.


  • Measure 3Optimise processes and increase water efficiency

    Optimisation of deconcentration values: Modify deconcentration values to reduce chemical and water usage while maintaining process safety.

    Reduction in sterilisation frequency: Minimise softener sterilisation frequency through water quality monitoring, conducting sterilisation only when necessary.

    Use of water-saving technologies: Approximately 20% of water consumption is attributed to patient use. Install water-efficient fittings such as sensor taps and shower heads featuring flow regulators and air enrichment technology.

    Empowering people: Train clinical staff and patients in efficient water management and conservation practices.


  • Measure 4Optimise the procurement and use of textiles

    Durable and sustainable materials for workwear: When sourcing staff uniforms, select durable fibres and textiles with environmental certifications. Choose colours and materials that maintain quality after repeated washing and wear.

    Sustainable sourcing of materials for treatment and care textiles: Utilise PET fabrics made from recycled materials and sustainably grown cotton. Prioritise fair trade organic products for items such as swabs, dressings, bed linen and patient gowns.

    Use of reusable textiles instead of disposable products: Employ reusable textiles in operating theatres and for cleaning, which offer proven environmental and economic benefits and better comfort. Use eco-friendly detergents and energy-efficient washing machines.

    Laundry machine with clothes pool: Provide centralised workwear access via an automated distribution system using staff ID cards to ensure uniform usage, minimise losses and extend garment lifespan.


Relevance & added value

Water is a finite natural resource. Implementing sustainable water management measures in Swiss healthcare facilities reduces water consumption and minimises energy usage in water treatment, helping to protect local ecosystems throughout Switzerland.