Inaugural Lecture prof. dr. ir. Erik van Raaij & Symposium 'Sustainability by design: Embedding environmental care in the healthcare value chain'

Sustainability by design: Embedding environmental care in the healthcare value chain

In the face of global climate and environmental challenges, healthcare systems are being called to do more than deliver care — they must also care for the planet. This requires an intentional and concerted design effort from various stakeholders along the value chain. This symposium explores how sustainable procurement can become a driving force for planetary health, bridging clinical responsibility with environmental ethics.

We invite policymakers, healthcare professionals, procurement specialists, and innovators to join us in reimagining how we source and supply for health — with tomorrow in mind.

The program brings together voices from across the healthcare ecosystem, spanning three key themes:

• Innovation and Design – exploring circular strategies, sustainable product development, and system-level thinking for greener healthcare.
• Practice and Procurement – focusing on real-world implementation, clinical leadership, and the transformation of procurement as a lever for sustainable change.
• Policy and Regulation – addressing the frameworks, incentives, and regulations that shape the future of sustainable healthcare at national and international levels.

Together, we will explore:

• What it means to purchase sustainably in healthcare today
• How procurement decisions can align with the principles of planetary health
• The policy shifts, collaborations, and innovations needed to drive sustainable transformation in supply chains

This symposium aims to foster meaningful dialogue and actionable insights — for a future where healthcare heals more than humans alone.

Inaugural Lecture prof. dr. ir. Erik van Raaij

Following the symposium, prof. Erik van Raaij will deliver his inaugural address, starting at 16:00 hrs. sharp, titled: ‘Purchasing tomorrow: Weaving planetary health into healthcare procurement.’