News

AAC awards funding to pioneering innovations that help deliver a greener NHS

The AAC via SBRI Healthcare has awarded £6 million to eighteen innovations that will accelerate a Net Zero NHS.

Climate change is a threat to global health, with air pollution alone accounting for up to 38,000 deaths a year in the UK, according to the Chief Medical Officer’s report. Considering its impact on human health, in October 2020 the NHS became the first health service in the world to commit to ‘Delivering a Net Zero National Health Service’ – by 2040 for the emissions it controls and by 2045 for the emissions it influences.

The supported innovations include a circular economy service to replace single-use products, a tool to show the carbon footprint of medicines, and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to enable faster, more reliable, on-demand, greener healthcare deliveries.

Achieving a Net Zero NHS requires a change in the way healthcare service is provided and innovations play a critical role in helping to reach this goal while also improving care for patients. Today’s investment is another step forward in ensuring a healthier future for future generations.

To find out more about the awardees visit SBRI Healthcare’s website.