Beyond Perception: Linking Physical Work Environment and Green Commitment to Natural Resource Conservation and Healthcare Workers' Health

Abstract

Hospitals are institutions characterized by high energy consumption and significant medical waste generation; consequently, the green commitment of healthcare workers is crucial for achieving sustainable hospital practices. This study aims to explore the physical work environment and the green commitment of healthcare workers, as well as their implications for natural resource conservation and health, at RSUD dr. H. L. M. Baharuddin, M.Kes. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis involving four informants selected via purposive sampling; the data were then analyzed using an interactive model combined with thematic analysis. The results indicate that the physical work environment encompassing lighting, noise levels, the work climate, ventilation, cleanliness, and vibration/radiation control is generally perceived as safe and conducive. However, these perceptions remain subjective, lack validation through standardized measurement tools, and rely heavily on artificial systems (such as air conditioning). These facilitating physical conditions serve as enabling conditions that shape three dimensions of green commitment: affective (emotional concern regarding waste-related risks), continuance (rational support for energy efficiency and digitalization), and normative (a moral obligation to adhere to waste segregation standard operating procedures). Although these three dimensions reinforce one another, the commitment remains vulnerable to external disruptions, such as the lack of discipline among patients' families and the absence of a formal reward system. It is concluded that maintaining and standardizing an optimal physical work environment is a strategic prerequisite for sustaining green commitment, which ultimately supports natural resource conservation and the protection of healthcare workers' health within the hospital.