As we celebrate World Environment Day 2024, NHS Lanarkshire is proud to share the steps we are taking to support environmental sustainability and combat climate change.
In response to the Scottish Government’s 2019 declaration of a climate emergency and the ambitious goals set by the Climate Change Bill, NHS Scotland has committed to several key climate change initiatives.
These commitments include the electrification of NHS Lanarkshire’s small and medium fleet by 2025, achieving a 75% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, and becoming a net zero carbon organisation by 2040.
To support these initiatives, NHS Lanarkshire is actively participating in the North Lanarkshire Partnership’s Action Together on Climate (ACT Now) initiative. This initiative includes the North Lanarkshire Community Climate and Green Wellbeing project, which has recently published six community climate and green wellbeing guides to assist local communities in taking climate action. These guides cover a range of important topics:
- Active Travel and Community Transport
- Community Food Growing
- Community Led Greening and Nature Conservation
- Community Renewable Energy
- Green Home Energy
- Reuse, Upcycling, and Community Sharing
Community and voluntary sector organisations are encouraged to take the climate and wellbeing pledge through the ACT Now North Lanarkshire platform (actnownl.org.uk).
Another significant development is the establishment of the Lanarkshire Climate Action Hub in December 2023. This hub is part of a network of community climate action hubs across Scotland, designed to connect, engage, and empower local communities in Lanarkshire to create local solutions to climate change. The hub supports community projects such as food growing and sustainable travel initiatives, furthering our collective effort towards a greener future. More information about the hub can be found www.lanarkshireclimateactionhub.org.uk.
Emily Thyng, Energy and Environment Officer, said, “NHS Lanarkshire is dedicated to leading by example in our commitment to environmental sustainability. We recognise that our actions today are vital for ensuring a healthier, greener future for all. By reducing our carbon footprint and supporting community-based climate initiatives, we are not only improving public health but also contributing to the global fight against climate change.”
NHS Lanarkshire remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental stewardship. By working together with our partners and the community, we can make significant strides towards achieving our climate goals and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
