Sustainability is at the forefront of the Scottish Government’s agenda, with ambitious targets set to combat climate change. Measures such as waste reduction, energy conservation, changes in travel behavior, and mindful consumption are aimed at achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
Health Boards across Scotland are stepping up their efforts to address climate and environmental issues. While progress has been acknowledged by the Scottish Government, there is still more work to be done. In NHS Forth Valley, the Green Theatres project, led by nurses, is focused on making operating theatres more environmentally friendly. The project has involved over 170 nurses who have contributed ideas leading to reduced energy consumption, waste production, and financial savings.
Efforts to reduce food waste at Forth Valley Royal Hospital include changes to standing orders for items such as milk, bread, porridge, fruit juice, and fruit. These changes have resulted in a significant decrease in porridge waste, with sliced fruit now being offered as a ward snack. Additionally, coffee grounds, previously discarded as waste, are now being repurposed for staff and visitor use, reducing coffee ground waste.
Claire Reekie, Serco’s Green Ambassador, works closely with management to promote green initiatives. In the bowel cancer team, nurses Linnet McGeever and Lindsey Straiton are advocating for physical activity to improve surgical outcomes. They have launched a pilot project that provides patients with free, long-term access to eBikes, contributing to sustainable development goals.
The “No Mow May” initiative at Stirling Health and Care Village aims to preserve grassy areas to support pollinators. This approach, endorsed by Plantlife, promotes wilder lawns, which in turn benefits plant diversity and soil carbon capture. Andrew McGown, NHS Forth Valley’s Head of Estates, is supportive of the trial and plans to expand the initiative.
These local initiatives exemplify NHS Forth Valley’s dedication to sustainability, addressing both environmental and health-related concerns.
