Mercy Health have been recognized for what it calls a commitment to developing a sustainable culture through environmental stewardship and working with others to protect the environment and the community's health.

The hospitals were recognized by Practice Greenhealth for initiatives Mercy Health: Youngstown launched with Bon Secours Mercy Healthy.

All three of Mercy Health: Youngstown's Mahoning Valley hospitals were recognized for their sustainability efforts, including Mercy Health: St. Joseph Warren Hospital, Mercy Health: St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital and Mercy Health: St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital.

Mercy Health: Youngstown convenes a multidisciplinary Green Team that meets quarterly to collaborate on sustainability initiatives and set goals for the market and its facilities.

Additionally, facilities have transitioned to utilizing reusable pulse oximetry sensors and plastics free of PVC/DEHP for internal feeding tubes and gloves.

The Youngstown team also hosts volunteer opportunities that promote sustainability throughout the year, including an event with the Sisters of the Humility of Mary who steward the Villa Maria Farm and efforts to keep the City of Youngstown beautiful with Youngstown Streetscape.

"As health care providers, we are called to care for the health and well-being of our communities. This calling goes beyond caring for patients and extends to our Earth and its natural resources as well," said Natalie Terry, director of mission for Mercy Health: Youngstown. "We know the health of the environment has a direct impact on human health outcomes. We believe it is our responsibility to be good stewards of our resources and to implement sustainable practices that leave the Earth a better place for future generations."