Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust recognises the enormity of climate change and its impact upon the health of local communities. We see it daily with the increasing number of patients through our doors and this will only continue, unless we take action to address climate change.
It is recognised that climate change is one of the biggest threats to human health and one factor of this is air pollution. Although it might not be visible, the impact cost of air pollutants on the NHS and social care system between 2017 and 2025 is estimated to be £1.6 billion. Approximately 3.5% of all road traffic in England is related to the NHS activity (6.7 billion road miles), therefore reviewing how and where patients access health and care services has led to the development of services that can be more easily accessed via public transport and active transport – e.g. the Community Diagnostic Centre at
Metrocentre – to reduce emissions from both staff and patient travel.
Since the publication of our first Green Plan in 2021 we have achieved success as we strive to reach our net zero targets, through the roll out of air source heat pumps and solar panels, increasing the use of electric vehicles and improving our green spaces. However
this is just the beginning of a journey, and we understand there is far more we must do and consider with every decision made.
As much as we can do as an organisation, it will take the engagement of everyone to achieve net zero targets so please get involved and think about what changes you can make personally or as part of your role. Change often feels daunting but remember every small change will make a difference and this is not just for the benefit of our patients but
for our families, friends, and our community. Realising our net zero ambitions would not be possible without the help and support of every single one of you.