Greener NHS Staff Campaign

The NHS is a world-leading healthcare system with a long history of firsts. It was the first healthcare system free at the point of service. In October 2020, the NHS became the world's first healthcare system to commit to reaching net zero

Reaching this goal matters. The core purpose of the NHS is to improve patient and community health outcomes. Climate change threatens this purpose, undermining the foundations of good health and putting the NHS, its staff, and the people it serves at risk. Tackling climate change is lifesaving, with health benefits gained through cleaner air, active lifestyles, and improved diets. As the UK's largest employer, contributing 4.6% of carbon emissions, the NHS is part of the challenge and the solution. It has a collective responsibility to act, with all 1.3 million staff having a role to play.

The second half of 2021 offers renewed hope. The UK will host COP26 - the world's largest climate action conference. This major international event provides a focal point to inspire raised ambition across the NHS and beyond. As the NHS emerges from the crisis phase of the pandemic, restrictions relax, and the external agenda on climate action intensifies, there is a converging opportunity for the Greener NHS team to re-affirm the NHS commitment to Net Zero and re-engage staff in showing their support for building a Greener NHS - and a healthy, sustainable recovery.

Complementing other targeted communications activity within and beyond the NHS, we will launch a staff engagement campaign in the second week of July - following on from the NHS Birthday, as a means to look forward - after what has been moment of reflection and thanks for what has gone before. The campaign will launch ahead of the Olympics, leading up to our Net Zero Ambition Anniversary [30th September], and culminating in COP26.

Staff Engagement Campaign Objectives It will take the support of all 1.3 million staff to ensure the NHS reaches its net zero goal. We want to launch a grassroots staff engagement campaign in the second week of July through to COP26, that will: • Build understanding and support among NHS staff in its Net Zero ambition and the importance of building a greener NHS to improve health now and for future generations • Inspire NHS staff to pledge support or take an action that demonstrates tangible support for a Greener NHS and/or reduces their carbon footprint, contributing to the overall net zero ambition

Documents can be found at https://health-family.force.com/s/Welcome