Wisconsin Healthcare for a Healthy Environment (WH2E) formed in December 2007 to foster sustainability in Wisconsin's healthcare sector. As significant users of materials, energy, water and other resources, healthcare facilities have the responsibility to "first do no harm" to those they serve and employ and to those who live nearby.

When a healthcare facility chooses to operate sustainably, it not only improves environmental health but also can cut costs, comply with regulations, meet accreditation criteria, improve patient outcomes, improve staff safety and morale, retain staff, attract patients and improve public relations.

WH2E is the one place where all parties who influence healthcare's impact on Wisconsin's environment can work together to share ideas and overcome barriers to achieving the above benefits. WH2E members include a variety of people working in healthcare facilities, such as from facility management, environmental services, safety/risk assessment, pharmacy, infection control, nursing and purchasing. WH2E also welcomes waste haulers, vendors, trade associations and technical assistance providers to attend its meetings.

To join WH2E, send an email to wi-h2e@uwm.edu stating your name, affiliation and interest in the group.

WH2E meets quarterly in healthcare facilities around Wisconsin. To find out more about what the group is doing and where it will next meet, please read the minutes, below.