- Conference
- 2022 Health Care Service Group Conference
- Date
- 10 December 2021
- Decision
- Carried
NHS organisations should be reducing their carbon footprint as part of the NHS commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2040. The NHS accounts for 5% of the UKs total amount emissions, with 14% of this being made up of emissions caused by travel. At the same time, the cost of motoring is at an all-time high meaning many staff, especially rural community staff, are subsidising the NHS out of their own pockets. Therefore, reducing mileage and seeking green alternatives should be part of all NHS organisations’ green plans.
The pandemic has demonstrated that NHS staff are adaptable and flexible when it comes to how and where they work. During the past 18 months, millions of patient consultations have taken place over the phone or virtually via video conferencing. This natural shift towards digital care has meant a reduction in the need for staff to travel which no doubt helps to reduce the environmental impact of NHS work and is something which should be encouraged where appropriate.
Where travel is unavoidable, for example due to issues relating to patient safety or for those working in remote areas in community roles, vehicles purchased or leased should be greener, zero-emissions or ultra-low emissions models.
COP26 has highlighted that urgent action is needed, by everyone, at all levels, to tackle the very real climate crisis happening right now. Staff should be encouraged to use public transport, walking or cycling as their main modes of transport where it is safe to do so and in line with the latest Covid advice. Employers should also help promote, support and subsidise the individual’s chosen Green Travel mode of transport.
The introduction of priority parking schemes for those using pool cars should also be considered as well as discounts and financial incentives for staff using public transport or less carbon intensive methods for work related travel.
This motion calls on the HSGE to:
• Promote green travel plans through partnership structures in the devolved administrations
• Provide practical support to branches on negotiating green travel plans
• Seek a commitment to reducing overall mileage in the NHS
• Argue for dedicated green pool car fleets for staff to use for work-related travel
• Encourage low emissions transport alternatives for all NHS areas (including deliveries, intra-site transfers etc)
• Promote safe public transport use for NHS staff, making the case to include any additional travel time as working time