NHS Western Isles Climate Emergency and Sustainability update report 2024/25

NHS Western Isles has published its 2024/25 Climate Emergency and Sustainability Report, detailing continued progress toward national targets for reducing carbon emissions, strengthening climate resilience, cutting waste and embedding sustainable healthcare practices across its services and estate.

This year’s report highlights both achievements and challenges as the organisation works to deliver high-quality care to remote and island communities while responding to the escalating climate emergency. In the last year, NHS Western Isles has achieved meaningful reductions in several key emission areas.

Some of the achievements made by NHS Western Isles between April 2024 and March 2025 are:

• A 47% reduction in emissions from medical gases, following the withdrawal of some anaesthetic gases with a high global warming potential.
• A 13% reduction in fleet emissions, supported by reduced mileage and the ongoing transition to electric vehicles.
• Implementation of national Green Theatres actions, to reduce waste associated with surgery.
• Pharmacy-led reductions in medicine waste, inhaler emissions, printing, and travel-related emissions.
• Staff pool bikes, including e-bikes, are now available, with new bike shelters and secure storage.
• Enhanced greenspace and biodiversity through Our Hospital Garden and the Jubilee Rose Garden at Western Isles Hospital.
• GP practice-led initiatives such as Broadbay Medical Practice’s courtyard transformation, which now provides habitat for pollinators and a place of calm for patients and staff.
• Awarding capital grants to improve community e-bike access, support sustainable festival infrastructure, improve paths for mobility and increase resilience in community facilities.
• Distribution of Wonderbags, which support energy-efficient cooking for households most in need.

Colum Durkan, Director of Public Health and Chair of the NHS Western Isles Sustainability Steering Group, said: “NHS Western Isles understands the importance of the climate emergency. As an organisation we are committed to working on a wide range of initiatives to minimise our impact on the environment, and to promoting ways that patients and staff can contribute to this. This report highlights achievements to date, and the dedication of those involved in delivering positive change. I would like to extend my thanks to everyone who has made a contribution, there is so much to be proud of."

NHS Western Isles remains committed to expanding and improving its environmental actions by supporting continued investment, innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient health service for future generations.

The report can be accessed at: www.wihb.scot.nhs.uk/about-us/publications (Annual Climate and Sustainability Report). For more information, contact wi.sustainability@nhs.scot