UHNM joins forces for greener NHS

UHNM has joined forces with the wider NHS to help combat the effects of climate change. The 'For a greener NHS' programme involves national-scale working with NHS staff, hospitals and partners and supports the NHS commitment to a 'Net Zero' target on carbon emissions.

Louise Stockdale, Head of Environmental Sustainability at UHNM, said: "It is in our interest to take preventative action against the clear health impacts of global climate change. Staff may have seen recent messages showing how one small change with the mode of travel they choose to and from work affects carbon emissions and the local air quality. There are many people who have already made positive changes to reduce environmental impact in their personal life, but now we want to encourage teams across the UHNM family to make these same choices. We also really want to hear staff members' ideas on how the NHS can become greener and we will be encouraging more employees to join our SWITCH community and become a SWITCH Champion."

According to NHS England, the health and care system in England is responsible for an estimated 4-5% of the country's carbon footprint. 

Sir Simon Stevens, NHS Chief Executive, said: "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. 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."

Want to help make a difference? Why not take the time to calculate your personal carbon emissions and footprint using this calculator: https://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx

If you are a UHNM staff member and have an idea, or would like more information, please contact: Switch@uhnm.nhs.uk