Did you know this week is #GreenerAHP week?

April 23, 2024

This week is our opportunity as AHPs and AHP Support Workers to renew our efforts on Greener initiatives. This may be through changes in care delivery, refreshing our conscious reduction of waste, or changing behaviours such as how we travel to work.

The NHS was the first healthcare system in the world to set a target to be carbon net zero and we can all play our part in achieving this. As health professionals and care organisations we have a duty to deliver health care now and to ensure that the care we are giving is not playing a part in damaging our patient’s health. AHPs are well placed to play a role to play in getting to net zero while ensuring high quality care for all.

The actions we take to improve health and reduce ill-health and inequalities also benefit our planet. Common AHP interventions, like encouraging active travel, promoting healthy eating, and supporting good mental health are part of the solution to climate change.

What will you do for #GreenerAHP week?

In the approach to #GreenerAHP week we’ve already had fantastic pledges from some of our SWB AHP teams including:

• Car sharing to reduce emissions
• Use of thermal mugs rather than plastic cups for hot drinks
• Making a conscious effort not to overuse plastic gloves/aprons and paper towels
• Fully shutting down computers and turning off lights at the end of the shift
• Cutting down on paper and reusing scrap when possible

To sustain some of these ideas and more, such as initiatives to recycle walking aids, we are looking for AHPs and AHP support workers to join our #GreenerAHP Forum which will meet monthly.

For more information please email saraholey@nhs.net.