Our sustainability policy supports our mission by minimizing environmental and health damage, promoting a healthy environment, and contributing to future-proof care and research. We see sustainability as a positive addition to the quality of life and the future of children with cancer, their parents, and our employees.
We set clear sustainability ambitions and translate them into concrete goals that align with our mission and responsibilities. These efforts are coordinated across the Máxima Center through the Green Office, where employees from all departments of the organization execute projects to achieve sustainability goals. In 2024, the Máxima Center appointed a sustainability advisor to facilitate policy and sustainable initiatives.
In the coming years, we will continue to focus on sustainability, as outlined in our multi-year strategy for 2024-2028: Moving forward together. By doing so, we help children grow up healthy, contribute to national climate goals, and remain an attractive employer. Together with children, parents, and employees, we are building a sustainable Prinses Máxima Center.
Green Deal Sustainable Care
In 2022, the Prinses Máxima Center joined the Green Deal Sustainable Care, a nationwide initiative aimed at making healthcare more environmentally and socially responsible. By signing the Green Deal Sustainable Care 2.0 and 3.0, the Máxima Center has committed to five key objectives: promoting health, education and awareness, CO2 reduction, circular operations, and reducing pharmaceutical waste. These objectives align with our mission and sustainability ambitions.
Since 2021, we have participated in the Environmental Care Thermometer program. Healthcare institutions can receive a certification if they meet specific environmental criteria. In 2022, we achieved the silver level.
Pillars Green Deal Sustainable Healthcare 3.0
This pillar focuses on increasing awareness and knowledge about the impact of healthcare on the climate and vice versa. We focus on development-oriented care, a health-promoting work environment, a sustainable building, and healthy nutrition.
Development-oriented care
The well-being of the child is our top priority at the Prinses Máxima Center. We aim to promote children's development and quality of life, considering their physical, emotional, and social needs. These aspects are reflected in the building's design: movement, social interaction, privacy, self-direction, natural light, and a green environment.
Health promoting work environment
We strive for a work environment that positively stimulates vitality and sustainable employability. This is achieved through a continuous offer of various activities and by actively highlighting key vitality themes. Additionally, two professional support consultants assist employees with stress management and work-life balance. Our employment policies also include incentives for sustainable commuting and sports activities.
Sustainable building
Our building is designed with sustainability and a healthy environment in mind. Abundant natural light, warm colors, and natural materials create a pleasant atmosphere. The construction and interior design feature energy-efficient installations and long-lasting materials. The roof hosts 1,930 solar panels, and an aquifer thermal energy storage system optimizes heating and cooling efficiency. During renovations and new projects, we prioritize material reuse and sustainable solutions.
Healthy nutrition
Our food concept offers a tailored and varied selection of meals. Since early 2024, we have been part of the national alliance ‘Goede Zorg Proef Je’, which promotes healthy and sustainable food in hospitals. Nutrition plays a crucial role in cancer treatment and recovery. Our restaurant emphasizes healthy and sustainable food, including plant-based meals, organic dairy, and innovative products. By making smart purchasing decisions and reducing food waste, we make a daily impact. Our commitment to the alliance ‘Goede Zorg Proef Je’ ensures that our nutrition contributes to the health and quality of life of children, parents, and employees.
Sustainability in the lab
Through Green Labs, the Máxima Center research institute is working towards more sustainable laboratories and a greener future. Two researchers from the Máxima Center initiated this project, which enables scientists across the Netherlands to share ideas and information on sustainable lab practices. Using the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), we are making our laboratories greener and providing research groups with tools to improve sustainability.
Want to learn more about sustainability at the Prinses Máxima Center? Click here, or watch the video.
