Eco-Innovative Frameworks for Climate-Resilient Healthcare Systems: Lessons from Kenyan Health Facilities

Abstract

Climate change is affecting public health systems, evidenced by the increasing disease burden from heat stress, vector-borne diseases, water scarcity, and malnutrition. These issues strain healthcare systems, especially in resource-limited regions. While healthcare systems are at the forefront in addressing climate-related health challenges, they also contribute to environmental degradation through high energy consumption, inefficient waste management, and resource- intensive operations. This dual role positions them as culprit and victim of climate change, emphasizing the need for eco-innovative frameworks that build resilience and reduce the sector’s ecological footprint. This study explores the eco-innovative frameworks that enhance climate resilience in Kenyan health facilities by examining infrastructure readiness, staff capacity, and sustainable resource utilization, to offer practical insights for similar healthcare systems. The objectives are to: (1) synthesize the best global practices and local case studies on eco-innovative infrastructure retrofitting for climate adaptation, (2) assess adaptive staff capacity development programs that prepare health personnel for climate-sensitive crises, and (3) evaluate strategies that optimize resource utilization and minimize ecological footprints within the healthcare systems. This study conducts a thorough review of secondary data from peer-reviewed articles, as well as global health reports and publications, and case studies from Kenyan Health Facilities to identify eco-innovative frameworks for climate-resilient healthcare. The paper argues that implementing eco-innovative strategies in Kenyan healthcare facilities enhances climate resilience and reduces ecological footprints through sustainable practices and policy development.