Decarbonising healthcare: how a competitive medical technology industry can contribute

“If Europe’s ambitious climate targets are matched by a coherent plan to achieve them, decarbonisation will be an opportunity for Europe. But if we fail to coordinate our policies, there is a risk that it could run contrary to competitiveness—and ultimately be delayed or even rejected,” stated Mario Draghi when presenting his report on the Future of European Competitiveness in September 2024.

Europe has set an ambitious framework to mitigate climate change impacts on human and planetary health. As Europe is the fastest-warming continent, systemic healthcare system risks and climate change impacts on individual citizens’ health are on the rise. Investing in climate resilience and building resilient and sustainable healthcare systems are key for sustainable prosperity and economic security. This requires a robust, competitive, innovation-driven, and enabled medical technology industry.

The EU Competitiveness Compass and Clean Industrial Deal promote joint decarbonisation and competitiveness planning for an economy that will be ready to withstand climate change impacts and turn challenges into environmental, social, and economic opportunities for all.

MedTech Europe commissioned the study “Decarbonising Healthcare: How a Competitive Medtech Industry Can Contribute” to Boston Consulting Group.

This report identifies how a competitive MedTech industry can support healthcare ecosystems to decarbonise. It showcases the potential of innovative technologies and describe the barriers, opportunities and decarbonisation levers for MedTech companies. It lays out the key pillars of a roadmap and enabling framework for the sector to reach net zero emissions by 2050, in line with a 1.5 °C emissions reduction pathway.

The final study report is available below.

For further information, please contact Sigrid Linher, Director Sustainabilty and Environment.