4 Ways to Improve Sustainability in the Medical Field

Julie Starr • March 5, 2022



Oftentimes, sustainability is discussed in the context of for-profit businesses and personal initiatives. One area in which it is often overlooked is healthcare. The medical field, whether concerned with provider-to-patient interactions or scientific research behind the scenes, is sometimes viewed as exempt from this conversation.

The required use of water, electricity, chemical disinfectants, and single-use plastics to ensure patient comfort and sanitization may make sustainability seem like it’s out of the question. The truth of the matter is that keeping science eco-friendly is just as important as keeping other business operations eco-friendly. 

While a complete overhaul of the system may not be possible yet, there are still a few ways that sustainability in the medical field can be improved today. 

Use renewable energy sources

Just like other infrastructure, hospital buildings, clinics, and research centers can upgrade their energy system to include efficient and renewable energy sources. A medical fridge can be powered by electricity generated through solar and wind energy and rooms can be kept warm by improving seals around windows and doors. 

Reduce transportation distances

By partnering with local external stakeholders, healthcare facilities can reduce their environmental impact significantly. Partner with a waste disposal company that is close by, and work with suppliers who aren’t located overseas. 

Using vehicles partially powered by biodiesel is also a great option, as is setting up incentives for staff to commute using transit systems and carpooling. 

Decrease water usage

Water is essential for protecting the health of patients and staff. However, water consumption can still be reduced in healthcare settings without compromising on health. Upgrading water heating systems to ensure that water comes out of the tap hot and doesn’t need to be needlessly run first makes a massive impact. 

Conducting a thorough investigation of equipment to fix leaks is also an important first step. To take this further, healthcare institutions can also harvest their own rainwater for activities like mopping floors and wiping counters. 

Reduce packaging waste

Single-use plastics are a huge problem in hospitals. From individually-wrapped medical supplies (such as needles), masks, and disposable patient dinnerware and cutlery, hospitals generate a significant amount of waste. 

The good news is that there are eco-friendly suppliers out there. Though it may cost more, hospitals should invest in providers who use compostable materials, tools that can be sterilized and reused, and products that come in less packaging. 

Promote a culture of sustainability

To successfully integrate sustainable practices in any business or association, every person involved must be on the same page. It’s not enough to try to improve sustainability behind the scenes; staff at all levels should be aware that this is a corporate goal and value. 

A specific department dedicated to sustainability and green initiatives will help the facility stay up to date on the newest technologies, as well as the environmental and financial benefits of implementing these technologies. 

Staff should also be trained on sustainable practices to ensure that they’re conscious of and confident in eco-friendly procedures. Creating opportunities with front-line staff to discuss what is and isn’t working will also allow you to get the feedback you wouldn’t otherwise have and make changes accordingly. 

Blockchain for Sustainability: Cutting Through the Hype with Strategic Communication

By Julie Starr • April 28, 2025
As blockchain continues to gain traction in sustainability circles—from tracking carbon credits to improving supply chain transparency—more organizations are exploring how these emerging tools might support their ESG goals. But with innovation comes complexity, and for many stakeholders, blockchain still feels like a black box. That’s where communication becomes essential. At Taiga Company, we work with clients to simplify complex sustainability narratives without oversimplifying the value. While blockchain can offer traceability and transparency, it’s not a silver bullet—and how you talk about these technologies matters just as much as how you use them. Poor communication can undermine credibility, especially in a landscape where stakeholders and regulators are increasingly alert to greenwashing . On the other hand, clear, honest messaging about blockchain-enabled sustainability efforts can build trust and differentiate your leadership. Our approach is grounded in materiality and alignment. We help organizations: Translate technical tools like blockchain into plain language that resonates with diverse audiences Connect new technologies to core sustainability strategy Craft credible narratives that evolve alongside innovation Blockchain may be new territory, but strategic communication remains the foundation. Whether you're piloting traceability tools or just starting to explore how blockchain fits your ESG roadmap, we help you tell the story with clarity and confidence. Let’s make innovation meaningful.

6 Things All Modern Businesses Need in 2025

By Julie Starr • April 22, 2025
If you’re starting your own business, then you know all too well that it’s equally an exciting and overwhelming time. There’s so much to think about, and you want to get it right from day one. But it doesn’t have to be as overwhelming as you might think. Let’s go through everything your new business needs to hit the ground running this year. A Clear Business Plan Before anything else, take the time to figure out your game plan. This doesn’t need to be a long, boring document that you’ll never look at again. Think of it as a simple guide that answers three key questions: Who are you selling to? What are you offering? And how are you going to get noticed? Once you’ve written that down, you can always tweak it as your business grows. From a communications standpoint, clarity on your audience and value proposition also sets the foundation for authentic brand storytelling—something Taiga Company helps clients refine at every stage. Responsible Financial Management Money is one of those things that can make or break a business. The good news is you don’t need a finance degree to get it right. Start with a simple budget. Know how much is coming in, what’s going out, and what you’re setting aside. Think about things like stock, marketing, bills and wages if you’re hiring. Keep it realistic and keep it updated. Doing this from day one will make life much easier later. Reliable Cloud Services In 2025, storing everything on your laptop isn’t really a safe bet. Files go missing, computers break, and you don’t want to lose important stuff. That’s where cloud services come in. They keep your files secure, backed up and easy to access from anywhere. Whether it’s documents, customer info or creative work, having it all saved online gives you peace of mind. And when you're building a business in a digital-first world, having secure, accessible assets also means your team can collaborate more efficiently across channels—essential for strong communications. Flexible Payment Options Most people don’t carry cash anymore, so if you’re only accepting it, you’re going to lose sales. Get yourself a card reader that takes all the usual stuff like debit cards, credit cards, contactless and Apple Pay. The easier you make it for someone to pay you, the more likely they are to buy. Simple as that. A Basic Website Even if you’re not selling online, you still need a website. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something that tells people who you are, what you do, and how they can contact you. Think of your site as your digital front door. If someone hears about your business, chances are they’ll look you up online. Make sure what they find actually helps them. A clear website is also one of the most powerful communication tools your business has. We work with clients to ensure their digital presence reflects their story, purpose, and value. A Way to Spread the Word You can’t rely on people just stumbling across your business. You’ve got to put yourself out there. Social media is a great start, but don’t stop there. Think email newsletters , posters in your local area or even just chatting about your work whenever it comes up naturally. The more you talk about your business, the more others will too. Starting a business in 2025 is a big move, but it doesn’t have to feel impossible. Get the basics in place, stay flexible and keep learning. With the right tools and the right message, you can build momentum and create connection. Taiga Company helps growing businesses translate operational essentials into brand trust and long-term impact.