Medline Firm in Efforts to Support the Development of Sustainable Healthcare …

25 Sep
2025
As a global company, Medline recognises its responsibility to uphold ethical and sustainable practices throughout its supply chain. Its comprehensive approach combines clear standards, active oversight, and continuous improvement.
 
‘Medline has prioritised supporting efforts to make healthcare more sustainable for both people and the planet. This is deeply integrated into our core mission of supporting the improvement of healthcare providers' operational performance by delivering better clinical, financial, and operational outcomes.’ Oliver Watts, Sustainability Director, EMEA shared.
 
The company’s global sustainability strategy is built on four key pillars:
 
  • Climate Resilience and Environmental Action – Medline has committed to operating a business that is environmentally aware and limits the associated contribution to climate change – while managing the potential impacts.
  • Responsible Products – Medline is aware that its products represent its greatest opportunity to have a positive impact for/amongst its customers and on society.
  • People and Communities – Medline is attentive to practices that support and enhance people and communities, respectively, throughout its supply chain.
  • Strong Governance – Medline is conscious that a successful strategy requires strong governance, related procedures for its fully supply chain, and as such, has a robust governance structure in place.
Medline employee charges electric forklift in warehouse facility, showcasing efforts to integrate renewable energy into its operations.

Evolution of sustainability at Medline

 

Sustainability at Medline has evolved significantly, shifting from a focus on operational improvements to a strategic, company-wide priority. This transformation was driven by growing demand from healthcare providers for sustainable practices, new regulatory developments in Europe, and rising expectations from customers, employees, and partners. Leadership commitment has also been a key factor, with sustainability now embedded in the company's governance and long-term planning.

 

The company's initial efforts focused on improving efficiency and reducing waste. These initiatives have since expanded into a broader strategy that includes responsible product design, climate action, and community engagement. As a result, Medline has launched impactful initiatives, such as product life cycle assessments (LCAs), investments in renewable energy, and packaging redesigns. These efforts reflect a deeper understanding that sustainability is about creating long-term value for healthcare systems and the communities they serve, not just about compliance.

 

The company also invests in renewable energy, waste reduction, and ethical sourcing practices, all of which contribute to a more resilient and sustainable healthcare system. Ultimately, Medline does not see sustainability as a separate initiative, but as a core enabler of its mission to support healthcare providers and help improve patient outcomes for future generations.

 

Today for tomorrow

 

At the core of this approach is Medline's Ethical Sourcing Programme, which sets rigorous standards for suppliers across labour rights, human dignity, and environmental responsibility. The programme is based on globally recognised frameworks, including the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. The company also publishes an annual Modern Slavery Statement, affirming its zero-tolerance stance on forced labour and child labour.

 

To ensure accountability, Medline conducts regular internal and third-party audits, supported by Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP over the past nine years. It also supports suppliers in improving their standards over time through guidance, training, and open dialogue. By fostering these long-term partnerships, the company contributes to the work towards a more sustainable and equitable healthcare system.

 

In addition to its own initiatives, ‘Medline believes that industry-wide collaboration is essential. We actively engage with associations like MedTech Europe to help shape more responsible practices in the medical device sector. Through these partnerships, we reinforce our commitment to industry progress, working alongside peers and healthcare providers to build a more resilient future.’ Watts closed.

Medline employee charges electric forklift in warehouse facility, showcasing efforts to integrate renewable energy into its operations.

About Medline

 

Medline is the largest provider of medical-surgical products and supply chain solutions serving all points of care. Through its broad product portfolio, resilient supply chain and leading clinical solutions, Medline helps healthcare providers improve their clinical, financial and operational outcomes. Headquartered in Northfield, Illinois, the company employs more than 43,000 people worldwide and operates in more than 100 countries and territories. To learn more about how Medline helps improve healthcare delivery and outcomes, visit www.medline.eu.