Pioneering sustainability in healthcare

In the face of escalating climate change and biodiversity loss, the NHS finds itself at a critical juncture where sustainability must be placed at the forefront of its operations. By integrating sustainability into daily operations, practice managers can contribute to both environmental stewardship and the long-term resilience of healthcare services

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on The BMJ

The escalating threats of climate change and biodiversity loss represent a pressing global public health emergency with direct and far-reaching consequences for health systems worldwide, including the NHS. These environmental crises contribute to a range of health challenges—from the direct impacts of extreme weather events damaging infrastructure and disrupting services, to the broader effects of air pollution and changes in the availability of nutritious food.

The NHS, as a significant contributor to fossil fuel emissions and waste generation within the UK, faces the dual challenge of addressing its environmental footprint while enhancing resilience and sustainability in healthcare delivery. This article explores the imperative of integrating sustainability into the core of NHS operations, emphasising the need for both mitigation strategies to reduce harmful emissions and adaptation measures to cope with current and anticipated changes in climate. It also highlights the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including political leaders, healthcare workers, and the public, in driving forward a sustainable, health-promoting agenda. This approach is vital not only for improving today’s health system but also for ensuring its adaptability and resilience against future environmental shocks.

Drawing from a comprehensive framework for climate resilience and sustainable health systems, six key areas demanding urgent attention and action can be identified.

Revamping infrastructure

At the heart of NHS sustainability lies its infrastructure, encompassing facilities, energy usage, and transportation networks. Presently, a significant portion of NHS energy derives from fossil fuels, casting a shadow over its environmental footprint. To combat this, embracing sustainable practices such as renewable energy sources and energy-efficient building designs is paramount. Moreover, a strategic focus on reducing emissions hotspots, such as energy-intensive operating rooms, can yield substantial gains. By championing sustainability in procurement decisions and bolstering staff training, the NHS can lead by example in building a greener future.

Harnessing technology

The NHS wields considerable influence in the healthcare sector, presenting a prime opportunity to drive sustainability through procurement decisions. By prioritising suppliers with reduced carbon footprints and enforcing environmental standards, the NHS can pave the way for a broader shift towards sustainability. Additionally, leveraging digital technologies for personalised care delivery not only enhances patient experiences but also reduces unnecessary resource consumption, aligning with sustainable practices.

Tackling waste

Wasteful practices within the NHS, whether in the form of unnecessary treatments or excessive material waste, pose a significant challenge. Minimising unnecessary interventions through proactive prevention strategies and prudent product selection is key to curbing waste. Furthermore, transitioning towards reusable equipment and implementing robust recycling initiatives can significantly mitigate the NHS’s environmental impact.

Promoting sustainable food practices

The food and agriculture sector accounts for a substantial portion of greenhouse gas emissions, making sustainable food practices a pressing concern for the NHS. By prioritising locally sourced, plant-based options and minimising food waste, healthcare facilities can not only improve the nutritional quality of meals but also reduce their environmental footprint. Empowering staff and communities to advocate for sustainable food practices is vital in driving meaningful change.

Empowering the workforce

With over 1.3 million employees, the NHS possesses a vast reservoir of potential for advancing sustainability. Equipping healthcare workers with the necessary knowledge and skills through comprehensive training programmes is essential. Moreover, fostering a culture of sustainability and providing avenues for staff engagement and collaboration can catalyse transformative change within the NHS.

Embracing nature and environmental health

Access to green spaces has been shown to have profound benefits for both physical and mental health. By integrating nature-based interventions into healthcare settings and investing in green infrastructure, the NHS can not only enhance patient outcomes but also foster biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

By embracing sustainability across its operations, the NHS can pave the way for a greener, healthier future. From revamping infrastructure to empowering the workforce, each step towards sustainability brings us closer to a resilient healthcare system that prioritises both human health and environmental wellbeing.