PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803361
PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803361
The global healthcare environmental services market was valued at USD 16.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 28.3 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% during 2025-2032. The expansion of the market is driven by increasing healthcare expenditures, a growing number of hospitals, and rising concerns about infection control. Governments and regulatory bodies around the world are implementing stricter regulations for hygiene and infection prevention, fueling the demand for specialized environmental services within healthcare facilities.
A major contributing factor to market growth is the rising prevalence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which has significantly increased the demand for effective cleaning and sanitation services in hospitals and other healthcare settings. Additionally, the growing number of surgical procedures worldwide, along with the increasing awareness of hygiene and safety, is propelling the need for high-quality environmental services to ensure safe and clean hospital environments. The trend towards green cleaning in developed nations, driven by both regulatory influences and growing health concerns over chemical-based cleaning products, is also fostering market growth.
Key Insights
The increasing focus on infection control and prevention is one of the key drivers of the healthcare environmental services market. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a major concern worldwide, with studies showing that 7% of hospital patients in developed countries and 15% in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) acquire infections during their hospital stay. These infections are associated with high mortality rates and longer hospital stays, increasing the demand for effective cleaning and sanitation services.
Technological advancements in cleaning practices are a key trend shaping the industry. The integration of UV-C disinfection systems, electrostatic spraying, and AI-powered cleaning technologies is significantly improving the effectiveness and efficiency of sanitation in healthcare facilities. For instance, UV-C disinfection systems are being increasingly used in high-risk areas such as operating rooms, patient rooms, and intensive care units to reduce the spread of infections.
Green cleaning practices are becoming more prevalent in the healthcare sector as the harmful effects of traditional cleaning chemicals on human health gain attention. Many healthcare institutions are adopting eco-friendly cleaning solutions that do not use hazardous chemicals, contributing to improved staff and patient health. The shift towards green cleaning is expected to continue driving the demand for environmental services in the sector.
The rising operational and service costs are a challenge in the healthcare environmental services market. The integration of advanced cleaning technologies such as robotics and electrostatic sprayers increases the cost of service provision. Additionally, high labor costs, along with the need for continuous staff training in infection control procedures, are contributing to the rising expenses in the sector.
The janitorial/core cleaning segment holds the largest market share, as hospitals and healthcare facilities require regular cleaning and disinfection to maintain hygiene standards. This service is particularly important due to the high patient turnover and risk of HAIs in healthcare environments.
Post-acute care is the fastest-growing segment in the market, driven by the aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions. Post-acute care facilities are increasingly outsourcing environmental services to improve operational efficiency and ensure high standards of infection prevention.
North America holds the largest share of the healthcare environmental services market, with a 45% revenue share in 2024. The region's advanced healthcare infrastructure, high healthcare expenditure, and stringent infection control regulations contribute to its dominance. Additionally, the presence of major players in the region further drives market growth.
Asia-Pacific (APAC) is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 7.2%, driven by increasing healthcare investments in countries like China and India. The demand for healthcare environmental services in the APAC region is also supported by government initiatives and the growing adoption of innovative cleaning technologies such as UV-C disinfection and electrostatic sprayers.
The acute-care facilities segment holds the largest share of the market (60%) due to the growing need for infection control measures in hospitals and other healthcare settings. The implementation of stricter infection control procedures has led to an increase in outsourcing environmental management services in these facilities.