Introduction

At Sandymount Green Medical, we are committed to promoting the health and well-being of our patients, staff, and the wider community. We recognise our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. This Sustainability Policy outlines our approach to reducing our environmental impact, promoting sustainable practices, and encouraging environmental stewardship within our practice.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

We are dedicated to adopting sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations. Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and minimise waste. We aim to integrate sustainability into the day-to-day running of the practice, ensuring that we contribute to the health of our environment as well as our patients.

Key Objectives

• Reduce our energy consumption and promote the use of renewable energy sources.

• Minimise waste through recycling, reusing, and reducing materials used in the practice.

• Promote sustainable transport options for patients and staff.

• Encourage sustainable sourcing of materials and supplies.

• Raise awareness among staff and patients about environmental health and sustainability.

• Comply with all relevant environmental laws and regulations.

Energy Efficiency

We aim to reduce our energy consumption and carbon footprint through the following measures:

• Transition to energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems in all areas of the practice.

• Encourage staff to turn off lights, computers, and equipment when not in use.

• Investigate opportunities for renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and assess their feasibility for our practice.

• Regularly monitor energy usage to identify areas for improvement.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

We are committed to reducing waste and increasing recycling efforts within the practice:

• Promote paperless practices by using digital records, e-prescriptions, and online booking systems whenever possible.

• Ensure that all waste is separated into appropriate recycling bins (paper, plastic, glass, organic waste, etc.).

• Work with suppliers to reduce packaging waste and choose products that are recyclable or biodegradable.

• Encourage the use of reusable and sustainable materials (e.g., cloth towels instead of paper towels, reusable water bottles).

Sustainable Sourcing

We strive to make sustainable choices when purchasing medical supplies, equipment, and other materials:

• Prioritize suppliers who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, including those who use environmentally friendly packaging and offer eco-conscious products.

• Opt for local and ethically sourced products where possible to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy.

• Ensure that products purchased are certified by recognized environmental standards (e.g., FSC-certified paper, eco-friendly cleaning supplies).

Sustainable Transport

We encourage the use of sustainable transport options for both staff and patients:

• Promote cycling, walking, and the use of public transport to reduce car journeys to and from the practice.

• Provide secure bike parking for staff.

• Consider offering virtual consultations to reduce the need for in-person visits when appropriate and possible.

Staff Education and Involvement

We believe that sustainability starts with education and involvement:

• Regularly communicate sustainability initiatives and progress to staff through meetings and internal communications.

• Offer training and resources to help staff adopt sustainable practices both at work and in their personal lives.

• Encourage staff to share ideas for improving sustainability and to actively participate in initiatives.

Patient Engagement

We aim to raise awareness about sustainability and environmental health with our patients:

• Inform patients about our sustainability efforts through posters, flyers, and digital communications.

• Encourage patients to make sustainable choices, such as reducing waste and using environmentally friendly products.

• Promote virtual consultations when appropriate to reduce travel and carbon emissions.

Monitoring and Review

We are committed to continuous improvement in our sustainability efforts:

• Regularly monitor the effectiveness of our sustainability initiatives and assess our environmental impact.

• Set measurable targets for reducing energy use, waste, and carbon emissions.

• Review and update this policy annually to ensure its ongoing relevance and effectiveness.

Conclusion

Sandymount Green Medical understands the importance of sustainability for the health of both our patients and the planet. By reducing our environmental impact and integrating sustainable practices into our daily operations, we aim to create a healthier future for our community and contribute positively to global sustainability efforts.