An anaesthetist is encouraging District Health Boards to look for ways to reduce carbon footprints.
It's part of a presentation Dr Cambell Bennett is giving at the Anaesthesia Annual Scientific Meeting.
He believes there's an irrefutable link to climate change events having negative impacts on human health.
However, with small changes the health sector could save funds and the environment, ultimately benefiting people's health.
Dr Bennett said hospitals could save money and better the environment by making changes to heating, lighting, and health related travel.
"The health sector has a hugely significant greenhouse gas and carbon footprint, estimated to be three to eight per cent of a country's total emissions. It's an awful lot."
However, Bennett, who is also Chair of the Lakes DHB sustainability committee, said only some DHB's are taking action.
"Counties Manukau and Auckland have both signed up to carbon emissions measurement and reduction schemes. Those guys are leading the charge but there is still so much we could do in New Zealand."
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