The Green Plan is a roadmap to embed sustainability across all areas of the Trust – for direct carbon emissions to be net zero by 2040.

The Green Plan outlines how the Trust will reduce carbon emissions across clinical care, estates and facilities, operations, biodiversity, transport and more. It aligns with the NHS’s targets to reach net zero for direct emissions by 2040 and indirect emissions by 2045.

Key strategies within the Green Plan include:

1. Transitioning to an energy-efficient estate.
2. Adopting low-carbon digital solutions.
3. Prioritising the decarbonisation of our supply chain (medications, medical equipment goods and services).
4. Adapting our services and the Estate to extreme weather conditions (Heat /Flood /Storms).

Chief Finance Officer Heather Smith said:

“We’re proud to launch our Green Plan which details our commitment to healthcare sustainability and climate change mitigation – it meets national NHS targets and reflects our values as a Trust.

“Climate change impacts health with extreme weather events that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, increasing pressure on the NHS.

“Excellent patient care and sustainability are interconnected objectives we aim to achieve.

“Our Trust’s Green Plan aligns with the NHS’s net zero target by 2040 and includes measures to reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining high clinical standards.”

Sustainability Manager John Upham commented:

“Our Green Plan will help guide and develop future clinical transformation, in line with national and local policies, and ensure we embed sustainability in all services across the Trust.

“We all have a responsibility to deliver this action plan – our staff are dedicated to our patients, and this plan works towards a healthier planet and healthier people.

“The Trust encourages staff, partners, and the public to join us in building a greener future.”