Nurturing a Green Organization
Facilities and Engineering Services (FES) established a sustainability portfolio in 2008 for the Saskatoon Health Region (SHR). One of the initiatives was to eliminate the use of herbicides, a proven carcinogen, on hospital property within the City of Saskatoon. Practices were changed to cut the grass a little more often during ‘dandelion season’ and before outdoor events. We also had to weather the complaints from staff who liked the pristine green lawns we used to.
We toughed it out and established a new practice. We were recognized by the Canadian Cancer Society, The Canadian Lung Society, the Saskatchewan Environmental Society and the RN Association for our commitment to creating a healthier environment.
The attached photo was taken on the lawn of Saskatoon City Hospital and includes representatives from all of the agencies, SHR grounds crew, the applicable parts of the FES management team. It’s an event we’re all very proud of.
