For a greener NHS

Climate change poses a major threat to our health as well as our planet. The environment is changing, that change is accelerating, and this has direct and immediate consequences for our patients, the public and the NHS.

This is why the NHS has launched the ‘For a greener NHS’ programme, working with our staff, hospitals and our partners.

We want to build on the great work being done by trusts across the country, sharing ideas on how to reduce the impact on public health and the environment, save money and – eventually – go net carbon zero.

“While the NHS is already a world leader in sustainability, as the biggest employer in this country and comprising nearly a tenth of the UK economy, we’re both part of the problem and part of the solution.

“Indeed if health services across the world were their own country, they’d be the fifth-largest emitter on the planet.

“That’s why we are mobilising our 1.3 million staff to take action for a greener NHS, and it’s why we’ll be working with the world’s leading experts to help set a practical, evidence-based and ambitious route map and date for the NHS to reach net zero.”

Sir Simon Stevens, NHS Chief Executive.

For a greener NHS – Great Ormond Street Hospital reducing single use plastics case study

Staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital reduced use of plastic gloves, and in doing so saved 21 tonnes of plastic and £90,000. The team used internal communications channels to raise awareness and developed a training package to reach all their nursing staff and healthcare assistants. The project changed behaviour and helped deliver health benefits for staff as well as the environment.