Reducing Supply Chain Emissions in the Healthcare Sector Through Partnerships (Asst. Lecturer Ali Salim Halim)

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The healthcare supply chain represents one of the main contributors to the environmental footprint of medical institutions, as it includes the transportation of medicines, medical equipment, and daily consumable supplies. These operations often rely on conventional transportation methods that consume large amounts of fossil fuels, leading to increased carbon emissions. However, advances in modern management strategies open the door to more sustainable solutions. Through effective partnerships with suppliers, hospitals can redesign their logistics systems to become more efficient and environmentally friendly. Key solutions include: Using electric and hybrid vehicles for transportation and distribution. Optimizing delivery routes through artificial intelligence algorithms to reduce distance and time. Adopting smart inventory management systems that supply medical materials based on actual demand, thereby reducing waste. These initiatives not only help reduce environmental impact but also enhance operational efficiency and lower costs—an especially important consideration in developing countries such as Iraq, where resources are limited. Moreover, engaging suppliers and training medical and administrative staff increases the likelihood of success for these sustainable transformations. This article is linked to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being Improving supply chain efficiency ensures the continuous availability of medicines and medical supplies for patients without interruption. Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Relying on electric vehicles and low-emission technologies in transportation. Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Developing innovative transportation and distribution systems using artificial intelligence and sustainable infrastructure. Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Reducing waste in medical supplies through smart inventory management policies. Conclusion Reducing supply chain emissions in the healthcare sector is not merely an administrative trend; it is an environmental commitment and a strategic partnership that brings together innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental protection. It represents a fundamental step toward building a more sustainable and resilient healthcare sector, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq.