RSU Research Breakfast focuses on "Homo Climaticus" approach to healthcare

On March 5, the Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Research Breakfast was dedicated to the topic of responsible use of resources and green thinking in healthcare, bringing together 35 participants both in person and remotely. In her introduction, RSU Vice-Rector for Science Agrita Kiopa emphasised the importance of researching societal processes and gave the floor to RSU lead researcher, Assoc. Prof. Dina Bite, who heads the study “Socially responsible green transition: strengthening governance solutions to empower Homo Climaticus in the healthcare sector (GreenCare)”. The project is being carried out by an interdisciplinary team of seven RSU researchers.

The study reaches its midpoint as initial findings emerge

Introducing the study, Assoc. Prof. Bite explained that the concept of “Homo Climaticus” refers to individuals whose lifestyle, decisions, and identity are significantly influenced by climate change and the need to adapt to challenges posed by climate change. This concept applies both on an individual and organisational level, and this study explores how climate-neutral solutions can be implemented in healthcare institutions to foster the development of Homo Climaticus. At the same time, the study examines whether the introduction of environmentally and climate-friendly solutions in the healthcare sector exacerbates existing inequalities or creates new ones. The study is in its second year and currently at the midpoint. Last year, it assessed the alignment of healthcare’s legal framework with international regulations on sustainable development, as well as analysed the economic risks of introducing environmentally and citizen-friendly green measures to the healthcare system.

In January of this year, a public survey was conducted on climate change issues in relation to lifestyle and healthcare. Although the results are still preliminary, it is already evident that Latvian residents do not strongly associate climate-friendly lifestyle changes with climate change itself: only 8% of respondents recognised a direct connection between habit changes and climate change. This reflects the generally low level of concern about climate change in Latvia. Similar to previous RSU studies, when asked about the significance of climate change, a large proportion of respondents (81%) agreed that it is a serious global issue. However, only 53% considered it a serious issue for Latvia, and just 26% saw it as a direct concern for themselves and their families.

The majority of respondents (64%) who had visited a medical institution in the past 12 months had not noticed any focus on environmental or climate-related issues, such as information about electricity-saving measures or waste sorting. Moreover, fewer than half of respondents (46%) indicated they would use online doctor consultations via internet platforms.

Case studies are currently ongoing in several hospitals, including the Children’s Clinical University Hospital (BKUS), Daugavpils Regional Hospital, and Liepāja Regional Hospital. Another hospital will soon be added to the study. As a pilot project, research was conducted at Strenči Psychiatric Hospital. The first compiled results indicate that hospitals are both planning and, where possible, implementing climate-friendly measures. These efforts provide an opportunity to save financial resources, as hospitals seek energy-efficient solutions—ranging from improving building energy efficiency to reducing paper consumption. Staff generally view and support the introduction of green measures positively, but systematic education on the topic is necessary. In discussions with the Green Liberty non-governmental organisation, project researchers concluded that although many people are willing to contribute to environmental sustainability, there is a lack of information about specific activities.

Climate issues are on hospitals’ agendas, but challenges remain

Following the project presentation, RSU Social Sciences Faculty researcher Vineta Kleinberga held a panel discussion with Anastasija Ustinova, Head of the Quality Management Department at BKUS, and representatives from Strenči Psychiatric Hospital—economist Edijs Poikāns and project manager Ilona Rāviete. Anita Segliņa, Head of the Environmental Health Department at the Ministry of Health, participated remotely. The discussion began with two key questions: “What has already been done to mitigate climate change?” and “What are the challenges ahead?”

Representatives from Strenči Psychiatric Hospital stated that issues with the green transition are very relevant. For example, CO2 emissions from heating and electricity are being calculated in Strenči. Several energy efficiency measures have been introduced, such as installing solar panels and insulating the hospital’s historic century-old buildings (with the help of EU structural funds projects). However, these investments take time to pay off, as

"green measures do not happen for free."

For instance, the hospital’s solar panel park is expected to pay for itself in 10 years. Another challenge is to change employee habits, but progress is already underway—an adapted Latvian-language version of the World Health Organization's informational materials has been distributed to staff. Additionally, transforming and managing hospital processes with climate neutrality in mind is a future challenge. Plans include further investments in electric vehicles. The biggest challenge, however, remains time and human resources, as these initiatives add extra responsibilities for employees.

BKUS representative Anastasija Ustinova noted that the hospital both considers and implements green transition projects. She emphasised that every procurement is "green," and all new buildings are energy efficient. Digitalisation is also a key aspect of sustainability. Cost-effectiveness per patient is important—the hospital tracks medication use per patient to minimise waste. Patient experience surveys indicate that most visitors to the hospital are young parents, who see areas for improvement, such as hazardous waste disposal and recycling bins. The hospital has also introduced an "idea bank," where any employee can submit suggestions, which are reviewed with feedback provided—staff involvement is crucial.

The Ministry of Health representative pointed out that this issue should be viewed from two perspectives: first, how the healthcare system contributes to climate change; second, how climate change affects human health (e.g., infections, heat impacts). In Latvia, climate change will most significantly affect vulnerable social groups—elderly individuals and people with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

Responding to a question about inequality risks posed by the green transition, the BKUS representative highlighted the importance of ensuring continuity of healthcare services while balancing the green transition. A representative from Strenči Psychiatric Hospital, with a regional perspective, emphasized the implementation of telemedicine, noting that while it is suitable for some patients, it will not be accessible to all. Preparedness for unforeseen circumstances, including environmental risks, must also be considered.

Even dog therapy in hospitals promotes eco-friendly solutions

Research participant Olga Veilande, a scientific assistant at RSU’s Faculty of Social Sciences, noted that the healthcare system is the fourth-largest generator of CO2 emissions. This affects disease rates and the availability of hospital beds, making it crucial for hospitals to participate in CO2 reduction. Studies from other countries show that the green transition has a positive impact on patient safety and recovery. She asked whether there is data supporting either of these aspects.

The BKUS representative acknowledged that hospital design is carefully considered when renovating old buildings or constructing new ones. The hospital employs play therapy for children. For example, before undergoing an MRI scan, children are taken through a role-play simulation, allowing the procedure to be done without anaesthesia—reducing medication use and benefiting the environment. BKUS also offers canine therapy, where two Samoyed dogs "work" at the hospital. This has a highly positive effect—young patients require fewer medications and spend fewer days in the hospital.

Representatives from Strenči Psychiatric Hospital added that they provide all available forms of art therapy, including music, dance, and visual arts. The hospital’s park is designed as an open space for both patients and the public. Nature has healing properties, and plans are in place to further develop garden and adventure therapy in the near future.