Our Key Take-Aways from Sustainability Conference 2018
With the third annual NHSScotland Sustainability Conference behind us, we’re reflecting on the powerful messages communicated by our industry experts and the next steps towards a Greener and Healthier Scotland.
Taking the lead for the breakout portion of the day, Joanna Teuton and Ruth Wolstenholme of Sniffer and Adaptation Scotland tackled the hugely important issue of climate change, an increasingly growing concern. A pivotal part of the United Nations Global Goals and a driving force behind our Sustainability Action campaign, they highlighted the climate change health and wellbeing risks to Scotland as a result of rising temperatures, reduced air quality and the broader community risks posed by extreme weather and flooding. Proposing means to reduce the inequalities that are exacerbated by our ever-changing climate, noting the unjust and avoidable health and wellbeing risks to those already marginalised within our communities, it was certainly an eye-opening discussion.
From BDP, Benedict Zucchi Principal, Architecture Profession Chair presented on Hospitals of the Future – creating successful spaces with a vision for sustainable user-centred design. Discussing the award-winning Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, heralded as an exemplar of energy-conscious design and representing the benchmark of sustainability and the National Children’s Hospital in Dublin, the most significant capital investment project ever undertaken in healthcare in Ireland. With awe-inspiring design and the finest medical facilities, these sustainable buildings are a window to the future of sustainability and its reach.
Supporting the underlying message of it all, Nick Cole of Teviot partnered with Alex Hilliam of Hilliam Research & Analysis, to introduce the design and development of NHSScotland’s new Sustainability Action campaign, aimed at supporting behavioural change across our hospitals. A symbol of sustainability in NHSScotland, the brand underpins all communications and is essential in raising the profile and awareness of how little changes can make a big difference for Our NHS, Our People and Our Planet.
If you’re interested in hearing more in-depth, the presentations from the day can be found within the latest section.