Environmental Awareness, Energy Conservation, and Recycling in Public Services: A Case Study in a Public Health Facility in Greece

The environment constitutes a fundamental natural resource for productive activity; however, its sustainability is increasingly threatened by human interventions. Part of preventing this ecological issue involves raising awareness and active participation from both citizens and public services, which will significantly contribute to controlling the depletion of natural resources. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the environmental attitudes of employees in a public health facility in the Prefecture of Attica, Greece, and how this relates to energy conservation and recycling practices in the workplace on a daily basis. By reviewing relevant studies, the paper presents examples of sustainable development and practical ways of reducing the environmental footprint in public services. To meet the research goal, a quantitative survey was carried out, and a questionnaire was distributed to all hospital staff; 151 questionnaires were finally filled in, representing 17% of the total number of employees. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, applying statistical tests to investigate discrepancies and correlations between the variables and the hypotheses formulated. The results of the survey show a fairly satisfactory level of staff environmental awareness, reflected in initial steps toward energy conservation and sustainable resource management practices, while suggesting significant scope for wider and more systematic implementation. Communication and information dissemination are important factors for more efficient hospital operations, given that the active participation of all is essential. The adoption of a comprehensive action plan and policies, guided by the hospital administration and public authorities, can substantially contribute to meeting sustainability goals in the public sector.