Interactive sessions on “making carbon a corporate issue” and practical case studies examining ways to achieve carbon reduction locally will feature as part of an IHEEM-supported Health Service Journal conference being held in London on 7 July.
Taking place in central London (venue yet to be confirmed), the “Reducing the NHS Carbon Footprint” event will, the organisers promise, “bring together board-level directors responsible for embedding sustainability into the NHS, as well as estates and facilities managers responsible for delivering carbon at hospital and other healthcare facilities”. Director of the NHS Sustainable Development Unit, Dr David Pencheon, will examine how NHS Trusts and other healthcare organisations can measure their carbon footprint and develop an effective carbon reduction strategy, with a look at establishing the right “metrics” to benchmark progress and set targets for future reductions. His presentation will also consider ways to “balance the legislative demands surrounding carbon management”. Considering how NHS Trusts can “take a strategic approach to procuring sustainably”, NHS PASA head of sustainable development David Wathey will highlight how they can “act as an informed client”, and effectively track the benefits of sustainable procurement, while Tim Price, of the Carbon Trust’s Public Sector Carbon Management Team, will focus on “understanding the Carbon Reduction Commitment and identifying financial resources available for investment in carbon reduction”. Other presentations will include a focus by Stephen Greep, CEO of the Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, on “developing a culture of carbon literacy to drive positive change”, and a case study presentation by Barry Jenkins, CEO, Norlife, on “embedding a low carbon footprint into design and the patient experience”. Implementing sustainable travel plans, ensuring efficient energy consumption in healthcare buildings, and reducing waste through effective management and recycling, will also be spotlighted. IHEEM recruitment/membership manager Chris Parker will be on hand on an Institute stand to discuss any memebership matters with members. IHEEM members can obtain a 10% discount on conference booking. T: 0845 056 8299. For more information visit: www.hsj-carbonfootprint.com
