As we all know environmental sustainability is no longer a choice but instead, a necessity, to build a better world for future generations. The Resource Group’s sustainability practices are driven by this necessity and are rooted in the Ascension Mission which calls us to be advocates for a compassionate and just society in our actions and our words. 

One of our earliest steps on our sustainability journey started in 2013 with the development of a reprocessing program, which since its inception, has diverted five million pounds of healthcare waste from landfills. Over time, we have added small sustainability ‘wins’ across our day-to-day business practices such as a reusable tote program for supply deliveries that has avoided the equivalent of 16 tons of cardboard waste since August 2021. 

As we look toward the future of our sustainability efforts The Resource Group has made a commitment to lead one of the three Ascension sustainability pillars:

• Responsible Supply Chain: This pillar focuses on the flow of goods, from procurement through their disposition after use, to increase social good.

To support this pillar, The Resource Group’s end-user led procurement process has accelerated collecting information on sustainable attributes to include standard questions focused on carbon emissions and sustainable packaging. Collecting this information supports our abilities to influence change and reduce Scope 3 carbon emissions. Additionally, as part of The Resource Group’s decision criteria for contracting, end-users will be provided with information on a supplier’s carbon footprint and overall supply practices so they can better assess if and how use of a supplier’s products may impact our overall organization’s sustainability goals. Through these combined efforts we hope to not only improve upon our internal practices but to also encourage increased sustainability across the overall industry.

We recognize we have a long way to go and not very much time. However, The Resource Group has always addressed challenges head on and through thoughtful collaboration. As the Senior Manager for Sustainability, I personally, am looking forward to enhancing the impact we make and improving our world for future generations. As Craig Cordola, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Ascension, stated in his 2021 call to action: “We strike out on new paths and meet the needs of the present with concern for all and without prejudice toward coming generations. Together, we will make a difference.”

Tom Kalla

Senior Manager, Sustainability, The Resource Group