After celebrating its 70th birthday back in 2008, the National Health Service is facing unprecedented demand and an ageing population. Over the next 15 years in the UK, there will be four million more people aged over 65, a 40% increase in hospital admissions, and larger number of people with numerous long-term conditions. The delivery of NHS services has a significant impact on the environment; it is the largest public sector producer of carbon emissions in Europe. Each year the organisation emits 20 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). The NHS is responsible for approximately 4-5% of the UK’s annual carbon footprint.
Tackling both the increasing demand and environmental issues is a huge and complex task. But it will bring significant financial, social and environmental dividends. The issue is how stakeholders can collaborate to further the positive impacts.