New Staff Green Champions Network for NHS Western Isles

NHS Western Isles is proud to announce the establishment of its Green Champion Network, a dedicated team committed to promoting environmental sustainability within the healthcare sector. This initiative aligns with NHS Western Isles' ongoing efforts to address the global climate emergency and deliver sustainable healthcare services.​

The Green Champion Network comprises staff members from various departments and Medical Practices throughout the Western Isles who will lead and inspire eco-friendly practices across the organisation. Their responsibilities include identifying opportunities for energy conservation, waste reduction, sustainable travel, and community engagement. By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, the network aims to enhance the health and well-being of both patients and staff.

New member, Sue Price, Chief Pharmacist, said: “I joined because I am passionate about protecting the earth and her natural resources. I first joined the local Friends of the Earth group in Durham in 1977. After my first grandchild was born in 2005 it made me realise that governments, society and individuals need to work together to minimise the climate impact of our individual and collective activities. I do as much as possible to live sustainably – growing produce, keeping a few hens, eating a vegetarian and majority plant-based diet, not taking any air trips, avoiding ‘fast fashion' and trying where possible to buy second hand goods and to fix things rather than replace them.  Since starting work at Western Isles Hospital, I have become more conscious of the sustainable changes that could be made quite simply. These changes will bring a reduction in carbon footprint whilst reducing bills.”

The formation of the Green Champion Network reaffirms NHS Western Isles’ dedication to environmental stewardship and the health of the communities it serves and builds upon its recent sustainability initiatives. These are outlined in the annual Climate Emergency and Sustainability Reports which can be accessed on the NHS Western Isles website.

Another new Green Champion, Margaret Ann Morrison, Clinical Support Technician in Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh, said: “I am keen to promote recycling initiatives and have already encouraged a colleague to commit to more recycling as their New Year Resolution as well as encouraging friends to travel more by public transport when on the mainland. The next message to promote is the importance of not cutting grass too early – “No Mow May” – which helps biodiversity by allowing wildflowers to bloom, providing food for pollinators, improving soil health, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing plant diversity.”

The organisation encourages all staff, patients, and community members to support and participate in these sustainability efforts. For more information, contact wi.sustainability@nhs.scot.