On top of what we’re doing as an organisation to be more sustainable, we’re encouraging our patients to be more sustainable too. Below are some ideas of things you can do as an individual which are good for you, and good for the planet, in-line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
If you have any ideas about what more we can do to be more sustainable, please let us know. We’re always looking for more patients to join our Patient Participation Group meetings to share ideas and inform our decision-making. If you would like to join our Patient Participation Group, please Email patientservices.scmg@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.
Sustainable Transport
Replacing your short car rides with greener alternatives, such as walking, cycling, or public transport is not only good for the planet but good for your health too. We have bike-racks at all of our Surgeries for patients to use, if you’d like to cycle to your appointments. Below are some of the benefits of sustainable travel.
- Reduces Greenhouse Gas emissions which contribute to climate change
- Improves air quality by reducing pollutants from exhausts and tyres
- Physical activity reduces your risk of major illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes
- Saves money on fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking
LiveWell Dorset has lots of good information about how to start cycling to work. You can also find some helpful cycle routes and maps on the BCP Council website.
Sustainable Shopping
By making a few small changes to your shopping habits, you can help protect our environment and preserve natural resources for future generations.
- Cut down on single-use items and aim for reusable alternatives such as metal cutlery instead of plastic, and reusable shopping bags
- Choose organic food, which is grown without entering synthetic chemicals into the soil, air, and water, making it better for the environment and for your health
- Consider donating unwanted clothes instead of sending them to landfill
Sustainable Household
There are a number of ways you can reduce energy consumption in your home. This will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but save you money on the bills too.
- Install insulation around your home, such as in the loft and in cavity walls. This helps to reduce heat loss, meaning less energy is spent keeping the heating on. You may be able to get support with this using the Government’s Great British Insulation Scheme
- Renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, is more environmentally friendly than traditional fossil-fuels. You may wish to consider switching to a green energy supplier or installing solar panels
- LED lighting has several environmental benefits over standard bulbs. They are highly energy-efficient, using up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and about 50% less energy than fluorescent lights. They also have a much longer lifespan.
