Sustainability

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The climate emergency is also a health emergency, as heating the planet is causing widespread health problems. Primary care in the UK contributes to around one quarter of the total carbon footprint of the NHS. We therefore need to enhance the health of our current population without compromising the health of future generations, and this means operating within the sustainable boundaries of the planet.

Fortunately most of the solutions for the planet also make our health better – for example, engaging in active travel and exercise in nature, avoiding smoking, reducing pollution etc. These changes will enhance our health and reduce our need for medications, with further benefits to the NHS, your health and the carbon footprint of healthcare. Find out more about changes you can make

Mile Oak Medical Centre

As a practice we have been making changes to how we function so that we now consider sustainability in all our decisions. We have developed an environmental policy and have declared a climate emergency. 

We welcome any patient ideas to improve our sustainability further.

Green Impact Award

The Green Impact Award was developed by the National Union of Students (NUS) in 2015 as part of its ‘Green Impact for Health’ campaign. The University of Bristol, Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) and the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare joined with the NUS to back the initiative.

Almost 1500 General Practices from across the UK have signed up and compete to show how they are working in an environmentally and economically sustainable way. The most successful practices are recognised with Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze awards.

Published: Apr 5, 2023