Montefiore in the News

Celebrates Sustainability Efforts Through the Use of Eco-Friendly Uniforms

NEW YORK (May 13, 2013) – Montefiore Medical Center today announced it has been presented with Cintas Corp.’s annual Green Garment Award. Cintas, the largest uniform supplier in North America, presented Montefiore with the award for purchasing the most eco-friendly uniforms, which are made using a plastic-to-fiber process that reduces landfill waste, saves energy and reduces carbon emissions.

“We are pleased to receive this award recognizing Montefiore’s commitment to innovation, which extends beyond medical care to how we care for our community,” said Steven M. Safyer, M.D., president and CEO of Montefiore Medical Center. “Providing our employees with eco-friendly uniforms is one of many environmentally conscious initiatives at Montefiore. As the largest employer in the Bronx, we have a responsibility to help ensure a sustainable future for our community, and we are committed to serving as an example for other healthcare organizations.”

The Green Garment Award celebrates companies that have purchased the highest number of garments from Cintas’ EcoGeneration™ collection. Each garment in the collection is created using an innovative process that diverts plastic bottles from landfills and transforms them into recycled polyester fibers that are then woven into fabric. Through this initiative, Montefiore has helped to divert nearly 250,000 plastic bottles from landfills.

Other environmental initiatives at Montefiore include a porous pavement project in the hospital’s receiving yard, a green roof to reduce the hospital’s energy impact, the use of energy-efficient vehicles, and a bike-to-work program that encourages alternatives to driving.