Our Green Plan
Addressing environmental issues and acknowledging the climate and ecological emergency has become an area of urgent focus. In 2020 our shareholder declared a Climate Emergency and has followed this up with a Green Plan which sets out a series of ambitions aimed at reducing the impact of the
Group’s activities on the environment.
In our Green Plan we have committed to:
- Reduce our carbon emissions
- Raise awareness among our staff of the impact of climate change
- Make the most of our green spaces
- Minimise waste and efficiency
- Consider the environmental impact of any decisions we make
As part of our the delivery of our Green Plan here are some of the changes we have made so far:-
- Piloting the use of full electric and plug-in hybrid vans in the Estates Team.
- Offering a home EV charge point as part of the lease car scheme to encourage the switch to low carbon vehicles.
- Installing additional EV charge points at our sites.
- Swapping plastic straws, cutlery and coffee cups in cafes for eco-friendly alternatives.
- Promoting “bring your own container” for takeout food and hot drinks in cafes.
- Rolling out a mixed recycling scheme to community sites as well as main hospital sites.
- Managing the Warpit surplus equipment reuse system which has saved over £250,000 in 4 years.
- Purchased 100% green electricity.
- Retro-fitting low carbon heat pumps at Monkwearmouth Hospital as part of heating system upgrade.
- Planting 1,000 trees in April 2021 as part of the NHS Forest project.
Cutting Single Use Plastics in our Cafés
The work to reduce single use plastics contributes to our Green Plan and our work to tackle the climate emergency.
Save Money and Save the Planet
Our sustainability team have shared tips with staff on how they can help save money and the environment but they are relevant to anyone who wants to do their bit.
No Mow May
We’re supporting the Plantlife campaign and encouraging everyone to get involved with NoMowMay and let wild plants get a head start on the summer.
Modern Cycle Facilities Installed at Benton House
The cycle facilities support the delivery of our Green Plan which focuses on becoming net zero by 2040.
Boost for Biodiversity at Hopewood Park
The grounds and gardens team at Hopewood Park have had a real focus on getting the site into top shape over the past year. Not only is it looking great for patients, staff and visitors but there’s been a boost to biodiversity too.
