The National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore has become the first hospital in the world to receive Healthcare Sustainability Certification, a landmark recognition awarded by the Joint Commission International (JCI) in collaboration with the IHF’s Geneva Sustainability Centre.
The certification follows a rigorous assessment using the Geneva Sustainability Centre’s Sustainability Accelerator Tool (SAT), which benchmarks sustainability maturity across environmental impact, health equity, and governance. The certification was announced by Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment in Singapore, during NUH Green Day 2025, the hospital’s annual flagship sustainability event highlighting its environmental progress and innovations.
Mr Jeremy Lee, Chief Operating Officer of NUH and Chair of the Sustainability Workgroup leading NUH’s green efforts, said: “Sustainability is not a choice in healthcare. It’s a responsibility and fundamental to our long-term resilience. At NUH, we believe that every staff member, every operating theatre, and every decision can contribute to a healthier planet. This global recognition affirms our belief that care for our patients and care for the planet must go hand in hand.”
JCI and the IHF Geneva Sustainability Centre celebrate world first
Speaking on the announcement of NUH’s achievement, Jonathan B. Perlin, MD, PhD, president and chief executive officer, The Joint Commission and Joint Commission International stated: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to The National University Hospital on becoming the first to achieve our prestigious international Healthcare Sustainability Certification. NUH’s leadership in accelerating sustainable practices – through performance assessment, strategic prioritization, and formal governance – sets a powerful example. Their efforts are making a meaningful impact on their patients, community, and the world.”
Ron Lavater, CEO of the International Hospital Federation added: “National University Hospital’s achievement as the first hospital in South-East Asia to receive JCI and GSC’s International Healthcare Sustainability Certification marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable healthcare in the region. This certification reflects not only NUH’s commitment to environmental stewardship and resilient healthcare delivery, but also the strength of the collaboration between Joint Commission International and the Geneva Sustainability Centre. Together, we are proud to support hospitals like NUH in embedding sustainability into their core strategies through the SAT—setting a powerful example for others across Asia and around the world.”
