NHS Lanarkshire continues to build on its commitment to a greener future for our health service, people and planet, one year one from it’s first-ever Sustainability Conference.

Following on from last year’s inaugural conference, further positive steps have been taken towards protecting the environment.

In the last year, NHS Lanarkshire improved on and developed a number of initiatives to make a difference including:

• Continued identification and investment in energy efficiency and carbon reduction projects.  This led to meeting the Scottish Government target of 56% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, and puts us on target to exceed the 2030 target of 75%
• A Sustainability & Climate Change Strategy is being finalised setting out NHS Lanarkshire’s plans for net-zero by 2045 at the latest
• Improved active travel facilities such as cycle shelters and bike repair stands installed across hospital sites
• Improvement in national Sustainability Assessment Tool score from 40% to 55%
• Further engagement with frontline staff, working to improve sustainability in theatres, wards, and other frontline areas

Marie Porteous, Head of Sustainability & Environment, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Lanarkshire is a great place to live and work. As one of the biggest employers in the area – and working alongside our partners – we can have a massive impact on our environment and our future.

“I’m exceptionally proud of our progress over the past year, despite the challenges of Covid-19, and we will continue to play our role in driving down our carbon footprint.

“We know it won’t be easy. Along the way we will need to challenge both how we work and how we think. That’s the only way we will be able to make the changes we need.

“I’m confident that by working together with our people, our partners and our communities, we can ensure Lanarkshire is a greener, healthier and happier place which will make a real difference for our NHS, our people and our planet.”