Understanding Planetary Health & What one Leader is Doing to Make a Difference: Insights from Dr. Husein Moloo

The HQ

Did you know that healthcare is one of the largest contributors to pollution, waste, emissions, and overall environmental harm? As such, The HQ podcast is starting a series to examine and discuss this in more detail.

In this first episode, we explore the concept of planetary health, an area of growing importance around the world and within the healthcare sector. Joining us to unpack this complex and existential topic is Dr. Husein Moloo, a distinguished colorectal surgeon and visionary leader in the field of environmental sustainability within healthcare. Dr. Moloo, who serves as the inaugural Director for Planetary Health for the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa, brings to the conversation a wealth of knowledge and a passionate commitment to integrating quality improvement, patient safety, and environmental stewardship.

Together, we explore why healthcare's environmental impact is critical, how to encourage sustainable practices, and what it takes to move from eco-anxiety to eco-action. This episode delivers not only thought-provoking insights on planetary health but also practical strategies to engage healthcare professionals and leaders in making a tangible difference for our planet's health.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the crucial connection between healthcare and planetary health, and learn how you can contribute to making a positive impact on both human health and the environment.

Key Discussions:

Understanding Planetary Health: Dr. Moloo provides a comprehensive explanation of what planetary health entails and why it is distinct from but related to climate change.

Healthcare's Environmental Impact: The conversation explores why the healthcare sector must focus on its environmental footprint. Dr. Moloo discusses the significant impact healthcare practices have on planetary health and the moral imperative for health professionals to address this issue.

Triple Bottom Line in Healthcare: Dr. Moloo explains the "Triple Bottom Line" concept and its application in healthcare. He discusses the importance of balancing environmental, social, and economic considerations to achieve sustainable health outcomes.

From Eco-Anxiety to Eco-Action: Addressing the prevalent issue of eco-anxiety, Dr. Moloo emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals and organizations to take meaningful actions towards sustainability.

Engaging Leadership and Workforce: Practical insights are provided on how to engage healthcare leadership and the workforce in driving environmental initiatives and fostering a culture of sustainability.

About Dr. Husein Moloo:

Dr. Husein Moloo is a colorectal surgeon with a deep commitment to quality improvement and patient safety. His interest in planetary health emerged from this intersection, leading to his current role as the inaugural Director for Planetary Health at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa. He also advises the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada on planetary health and co-chairs the AFMC’s national planetary health committee. Dr. Moloo's leadership in this field is instrumental in advancing the conversation and actions needed to address the urgent environmental challenges facing the healthcare sector.

Helpful Links:

Dr. Husein Moloo | LinkedIn: Click Here

Planetary Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa | Website: Click Here

Planetary Health Report Card | Website: Click Here

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