The Practice Greenhealth Champion Award recognizes superior performance in environmental sustainability, covering a range of different sustainability programs and activities. Photo courtesy of Dignity Health

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center announced June 23 it has received the 2026 Practice Greenhealth Champion Award, a national recognition honoring healthcare organizations that demonstrate leadership in environmental sustainability and climate resilience. 

The Practice Greenhealth Champion Award recognizes superior performance in environmental sustainability, covering a range of different sustainability programs and activities. This comprehensive award evaluates and celebrates extensive achievements across various environmental impact areas, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation, greener purchasing, healthy food and chemical reduction. This award builds upon previous recognitions, marking an advancement in Mercy San Juan’s sustainability journey.

Mercy San Juan was one of five Dignity Health hospitals in the Sacramento region to receive the 2026 Champion Award, highlighting a system-wide commitment to environmental responsibility. The other Dignity Health hospitals recognized include Mercy General Hospital, Woodland Memorial Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Folsom and Methodist Hospital of Sacramento.

Dignity Health, a member of CommonSpirit Health, is aggressively advancing sustainability efforts as part of the CommonSpirit Health Climate Action Plan. With a commitment to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and a 50 percent reduction in operational emissions by 2030, Dignity Health is taking bold steps to recognize environmental protection as a vital part of improving health for all.

“Receiving the 2026 Practice Greenhealth Champion Award is a meaningful recognition of Mercy San Juan’s commitment to caring for both people and the environment,” said Austin Manning, president and CEO at Mercy San Juan Medical Center. “Environmental stewardship is an extension of our healing mission. By incorporating sustainable practices into our daily operations, we are helping create a healthier future for our patients, our community and future generations.”

The achievement of the Champion Award highlights the commitment of Mercy San Juan to act with intention and accountability, not just in how they care for patients, but in how they champion a healthier planet. These efforts collectively contribute to the organization’s  broader mission to deliver high-quality, compassionate care while being responsible corporate citizens.

“The health care sector is claiming its role as a guardian of public health by refusing to contribute to the problem. Sustainability isn't a side project – it’s a core business strategy that drives resilience, saves money, and, most importantly, fulfills our mission to heal,” said Health Care Without Harm and Practice Greenhealth CEO Emily Bancroft. “The health care system of the future – one that heals both the patient and the planet – is being built right here by Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center.”