CARBON FOOTPRINT ANALYSIS OF HOSPITALS : A CASE STUDY OF BUAYAI HOSPITAL, NAKHON RATCHASIMA PROVINCE

Abstract

            This study aims to assess and analyze both direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Buayai Hospital, located in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. The assessment follows the GHG Protocol and classifies emissions into three scopes: Scope 1 covers direct emissions from stationary and mobile fuel combustion, wastewater treatment, and fugitive sources; Scope 2 includes indirect emissions from purchased electricity; and Scope 3 comprises other indirect emissions from municipal water consumption and waste disposal. Historical data spanning a 12-month period were utilized. The results indicate that the hospital’s total annual GHG emissions amount to 1,852 tCO₂e/year. Among these, Scope 2 emissions accounted for the largest share at 77% (1,427 tCO₂e/year), primarily from electricity use, followed by Scope 1 at 21% (336 tCO₂e/year) and Scope 3 at 5% (90 tCO₂e/year). The emission intensity was estimated at 22 kg CO₂e per patient. To mitigate GHG emissions, the proposed strategies include: (1) improving energy efficiency through upgrading and replacing electrical equipment, (2) adopting renewable energy sources, (3) implementing comprehensive waste management aligned with the 3Rs principle (reduce, reuse, recycle), and (4) introducing water conservation measures. Implementing these strategies could potentially reduce GHG emissions by 20–30%, while maintaining the quality of healthcare services. The findings provide essential baseline data to support sustainable hospital management and contribute to Thailand’s climate policy initiatives.