Media Release
Udupi, June 23: CSI Lombard Memorial (Mission) Hospital, Udupi, has been honoured with the HELP Sustainability Excellence Award 2026 for best green energy efficiency practices, a prestigious national-level recognition conferred by the Health and Environment Leadership Platform (H.E.L.P.) for promoting sustainable healthcare.
The award was received by Dr Sushil Jathanna, director of the hospital, at the HELP international conference held at Yashoda Hospitals, HITEC City, Hyderabad, on Saturday, June 20.
With the healthcare sector accounting for an estimated 4.5 to 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, environmental sustainability has become a key priority for healthcare organisations worldwide.
Many hospitals are aligning their operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through measures aimed at reducing their environmental footprint.
The award recognises hospitals that have demonstrated exemplary leadership and measurable results in energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption and resource conservation. Entries were evaluated on parameters such as environmental impact, innovation, institutional commitment, scalability and governance.
The recognition follows the implementation of the hospital's INSPIRE Green Hospital Project, launched in June 2024 under the leadership of Dr Jathanna to reduce the environmental impact of healthcare services. As part of the initiative, the hospital installed solar power systems, conducted carbon footprint assessments, introduced energy and water conservation measures, strengthened waste segregation and management practices, promoted campus greening and biodiversity conservation, and created awareness about climate change and sustainability.
Founded in 1923 by Swiss missionary physician Dr Eva Lombard, CSI Lombard Memorial (Mission) Hospital is among the pioneering healthcare institutions in coastal Karnataka. The NABH-accredited hospital serves the region through a range of major medical specialities and healthcare facilities.
Expressing his happiness over the achievement, Dr Jathanna said, “This award is a proud recognition of our commitment to environmentally responsible healthcare.” He credited the hospital's staff, students and other stakeholders with making the INSPIRE Green Hospital Project a success through their dedication and efforts on the ground.
He also acknowledged the support of the Lombard Foundation, Switzerland, and its advisers in helping the hospital achieve important sustainability milestones. Dr Jathanna said the institution would continue to strengthen its sustainability initiatives in the years ahead.
H.E.L.P. is a knowledge-sharing and networking platform established by the Public Health Foundation of India in collaboration with Health Care without harm. It serves as the India chapter of the Global Green and Healthy Hospitals network, a worldwide movement comprising more than 2,000 members representing over 70,000 hospitals and health systems across 80 countries.