Environmental Sustainability of Healthcare Supply Chains: A Scoping Review

Healthcare Supply Chains (hSCs) are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, which threatens healthcare delivery and the health of patients. Given their significant environmental footprint, hSCs present a critical opportunity for sustainability improvements. This study aims to contribute to the development of a standardized definition and processes for environmental sustainability in hSCs. Through a scoping review, 358 publications from 2014-2024 across various jurisdictions were reviewed, and eleven publications were included. None provided a standardized definition of ES in hSCs. Definitions were proposed for environmental sustainability in hSCs and hSC management based on established frameworks and concepts. The emergent features—responsible resource management, visible infrastructure, a collaborative network, and committed governance—highlight the multifaceted nature of environmental sustainability in this context. The findings suggest the need for strategic alignment, a systems-based approach, more comprehensive data, and leaders, champions, and success stories in the area to mobilize action. Further research is needed to validate the proposed definition and explore variance of environmental sustainability across different stakeholders in a hSC and geographical contexts.