Introduction
We are proud of the contribution that the NHS makes to health, as a provider, developer and researcher of universal health services and treatments, as a major employer and contributor to national and local economies and as an institute responding to social and economic change and promoting public health.
In the face of climate change, the biggest threat to global health of the 21st century, we need to reassess and adapt to the challenge as an organisation and as individuals within the organisation.
This means understanding the impacts of climate change on health and illness, recognising that the NHS needs to be sustainable for future generations and understanding the interdependence and opportunity of sustainability goals such as those set out by the United Nations (UN).
NHS Lothian Vision
Our vision is to be a lead organisation in sustainable health care with all our staff empowered to put sustainable healthcare at the heart of their practice. We will work with our partners and the communities we serve to put in place work practices, procurement systems and preventative interventions to minimise our environmental impact, protect the natural environment and enhance social value so that we are a sustainable service promoting good health and enhancing quality of life.
Our Goals and Strategic Objectives
1. NHS Lothian will have zero carbon emissions by 2040.
2. NHS Lothian will contribute to enhancing our natural environment.
3. NHS Lothian will promote climate resilience and ensure that its services are adapted to climate change.
4. NHS Lothian will ensure that sustainable development is embedded in all its activities including governance and decision making, clinical practice, partnership working and advocacy.
5. NHS Lothian will put sustainability at the core of its strategies for promoting health and well-being among staff, patients and the wider community.
NHS Lothian are implementing an environmental management systems to the standard equivalent to ISO14001. Read our Environmental Management Policy Statement here. NHS-Lothian-Environmental-Management-Policy-Statement-Signed-041223.pdf
