NHS Scotland to outline strategy to achieve net-zero

Global consultancy group Ricardo has announced that they will be supporting NHS Scotland to achieve net-zero emissions before 2045. 

Ricardo will help the NHS to develop a clear strategy to improve operational efficiencies, both through performance and cost reductions.

The strategy will also cover areas such as improved energy solutions, the introduction of low emission technologies, development of a circular economy and improvements to the NHS vehicle fleet.

This development of the NHS Services net-zero strategy aligns with the Climate Change (Scotland) Act which outlines a requirement for the public sector to achieve net-zero by 2045 at the latest.

Kathryn Dapré, NHS Scotland’s head of energy & sustainability said: ‘We’re looking forward to working with Ricardo’s experts on the development of route maps to enable our Boards to meet net-zero carbon targets.

‘These route maps will support NHS Scotland’s wider aspiration to be a net-zero service by 2045. As well as reducing NHS Scotland’s impact on the climate crisis, this will provide health co-benefits across the communities we serve.’

Darren Perrin, Ricardo’s director of net-zero added: ‘Health and the environment are so tightly interlinked, and with this strategy, the NHS Services Scotland will be playing an important role.

‘We’ve have been working with NHS boards on sustainability for many years, and we’re excited our experts will be working closely with NHS Services Scotland to enable them to recognise ambitions to significantly reduce its impact on the environment.’

In related news, two international consultancy groups, Ricardo and Mott Macdonald announced plans to help the water industry to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Water UK, who represent more than 25 water and wastewater companies, will host a water industry event later today (March 5) where the two consultants will present their analysis and set out options for companies to consider as they develop their future plans.