This week marks Scotland’s Climate Week, a national celebration of the positive actions people and organisations are taking to tackle the climate emergency.
Here in NHS Lanarkshire, we’re using the week to spotlight the real changes we’re making across five key areas of our Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy: energy, water, waste, transport and active travel, and greenspace and biodiversity.
Did you know over 60% of our carbon emissions are linked to building energy use? Or that staff travelled over five million miles last year – the equivalent of circling the globe 200 times? These figures show just how big a difference small actions can make.
From installing solar panels across our estate to cutting down on single-use plastics, our teams are working hard to build a greener health service. This week’s campaign will highlight simple steps everyone can take – from switching off screens to reporting leaking taps, using the correct waste bins, and rethinking how we travel to work.
Craig Brown, Head of Sustainability & Environmental Performance, said:“Scotland’s Climate Week is a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the progress we’re making, but also a reminder that we all have a part to play. Whether it’s cycling to work, reducing waste, or simply turning off lights – every action counts towards building a healthier planet and a more sustainable NHS.”
Staff can also visit Net Zero Nation or Climate Action Lanarkshire to find out how to take climate action at home and in the community.
If you’ve got ideas or questions, email sustainabilityteam@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk – and let’s keep the conversation going beyond Climate Week.
