In a strategic move to combat climate change and support the NHS’s net zero objectives, the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has launched the Green Physician Toolkit, designed to assist doctors in reducing the environmental impact of their practices. This comprehensive toolkit includes:
In-depth information on the connection between climate change and health
High-level actions and strategies to enhance sustainability within medical practices
Detailed case studies showcasing exemplary practices and innovative solutions
Key resources and guidelines to support sustainability efforts
The toolkit encourages doctors to adopt practices such as minimising unnecessary prescriptions through shared decision-making with patients, educating patients about the health implications of climate change, and limiting diagnostic procedures to those that are clinically necessary.
Professor Ramesh Arasaradnam, RCP’s academic vice president, emphasised the importance of this initiative: "Healthcare professionals in the NHS are often at the forefront of encountering the health repercussions of climate change. While it can be challenging to prioritise sustainability amidst the high demand for clinical care, it is essential to remember that mitigating climate change will ultimately alleviate long-term pressures on the NHS."
The Green Physician Toolkit builds on the RCP’s position paper from the previous year, which called on both the government and the NHS to adopt a range of sustainability measures. This initiative underscores the RCP's commitment to integrating environmental considerations into healthcare practices, recognising that a sustainable approach to healthcare can lead to improved health outcomes and reduced environmental impact.
The toolkit's release aligns with the recent observance of Clean Air Day, a campaign that saw the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health urging the new government to set ambitious air quality targets in line with World Health Organization standards and to develop a strategic approach to tackling air pollution. This synchronisation highlights a broader, multi-faceted effort to address environmental issues and their direct impact on public health.
Through these combined efforts, the RCP aims to empower healthcare professionals to take meaningful actions towards sustainability, ultimately contributing to a healthier planet and population.
Climate Action for Associations (CAFA) aims to accelerate the transition of entire sectors and professions towards sustainability. We support associations in implementing effective strategies to reduce air pollution and promote environmental health, thereby contributing to the broader effort to combat climate change and improve public health outcomes.
In line with the Green Physician Toolkit, we foster community learning, enabling membership organisations to confidently fulfil their sustainability commitments and ultimately contribute to a healthier planet.
Support your membership organisation’s climate action journey. Learn more here.
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