Climate change poses a significant threat to health and the environment. NHS England North East and Yorkshire is launching a month-long Greener NHS initiative, showcasing the region’s commitment to sustainability, and reducing its environmental footprint.

Throughout September, this initiative will focus on various areas of sustainability to highlight the NHS’s ongoing commitment to a greener future. The month will begin with efforts to reduce waste across healthcare settings, aiming to minimise environmental impact, enhance patient care, and create a safer workplace for NHS staff.

Following this, attention will shift to improving the NHS estate and facilities. Efforts include enhancing energy efficiency, optimising care locations, and investing in renewable energy to significantly lower the carbon footprint. These initiatives not only reduce emissions but also lead to substantial cost savings, as demonstrated by recent successes in the region.

Neil Cartwright, Net Zero Programme Manager, said: “By investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also achieving significant cost savings that can be redirected to patient care.

“Our recent projects have shown that sustainability and economic efficiency go hand in hand.”

In the third week, the focus will be on clean air initiatives, essential for both patient and staff health. The integration of electric vehicles, the establishment of clean air zones, and a push towards renewable energy sources are key strategies being employed to improve air quality and align with the NHS’s net-zero strategy.

The month will conclude with a spotlight on biodiversity. The NHS is incorporating green spaces and diverse plant life within its estates to promote mental and physical health. Projects such as transforming hospital grounds into wildflower meadows and creating woodland trails are enhancing the environment and fostering community well-being.

Dr Hamish McLure, NHS Medical Director in the North East and Yorkshire, said: “Improving our environment directly impacts health outcomes. Cleaner air and green spaces contribute to better mental and physical health for both patients and staff, reinforcing the importance of our sustainability efforts.”

In October 2020, the NHS became the world’s first health service to commit to reaching carbon net zero, in response to the profound and growing threat to health posed by climate change. The “Delivering a Net Zero Health Service” report sets out a clear ambition and two evidence-based targets. Thanks to NHS people, partners, and suppliers, we’re already on the way to building a greener NHS

Join Us in Creating a Greener, Healthier Future

We invite everyone to join us this September as we explore critical areas of sustainability and share our progress in creating a greener, healthier future for all. Visit our regional webpage for more information on these initiatives: NHS England » North East and Yorkshire – Greener NHS.