Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Pioneers Sustainability Efforts

Strategic Insights -

As part of its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has made significant strides in implementing green projects across its sites. Since launching its first Green Plan in 2022, the Trust has successfully phased out desflurane and removed piped nitrous oxide, transitioned to 100% renewable electricity, and introduced recycling programs. These efforts have resulted in a substantial reduction of 6,550 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to taking 1,400 cars off the road each year. The Trust's memorial gardens have also earned Green Flag Awards, recognizing their high standards of maintenance and environmental care.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trust has saved thousands of pounds by phasing out desflurane and removing piped nitrous oxide, which has been directed back into patient care.
  • The organisation has transitioned to 100% renewable electricity, significantly cutting emissions across its estate.
  • The Trust has introduced recycling programs for colleagues and patients, beginning at Montagu Hospital and rolling out across all sites.
  • Total carbon emissions have been reduced by 6,550 tonnes, equivalent to taking 1,400 cars off the road each year.
  • The Trust has implemented improved clinical waste controls within Theatres and beyond, ensuring waste is both cost-effective and has less impact on the environment.
  • DBTH's memorial gardens have all earned Green Flag Awards, recognizing their high standards of maintenance and environmental care.
  • The Trust has launched its refreshed Green Plan for 2025-2028, which sets out how DBTH will build on this progress and continue to reduce its impact on the environment.
  • The Green Plan focuses on nine key areas, including greener estates, travel, sustainable supply chains, food, and clinical care.
  • Future ambitions include decarbonising heat across hospital sites and investing in smart, energy-efficient buildings.

Statistics:

  • Reduction in carbon emissions: 6,550 tonnes
  • Equivalent reduction in emissions: 1,400 cars off the road each year
  • Renewable electricity: 100%
  • Savings from phasing out desflurane and removing piped nitrous oxide: Thousands of pounds
  • NHS contribution to UK's total emissions: 4 to 5%
  • NHS targets: Reach net zero by 2040 for direct emissions and by 2045 for indirect emissions

Sources:

  • Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (2022) - Press Release
  • NHS (undated) - Net Zero NHS webpage
  • The Guardian (2022) - "NHS sets out plans to become carbon neutral by 2040"