Why NHS Trusts Are Taking Sustainability Seriously
Environmental health is the link between pollution, energy use, waste, and even workplace habits impact our wellbeing. In the UK, no one is more directly invested in that link than the NHS.
NHS Trusts are now stepping up to tackle the climate crisis to hit their net zero targets and actively protect the health of their patients, staff, and communities. This blog will explore what environmental health really means, as well as how NHS Trusts are engaging staff in sustainability to drive real change.
What Is Environmental Health?
Environmental health refers to the aspects of our environment that affect our physical and mental wellbeing. This includes:
- Air and water quality
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Energy consumption and emissions
- Workplace conditions and green spaces
When these elements are mismanaged, they contribute to chronic illness, respiratory issues, and mental health challenges. But when we get them right, they support a healthier, more resilient population.
Why NHS Trusts Are Investing in Sustainability
In 2020, the NHS became the first healthcare system in the world to commit to reaching net zero emissions. Their two key goals are:
- Net zero for NHS-controlled emissions by 2040
- Net zero for supply chain and indirect emissions by 2045
These commitments are outlined in the Greener NHS Strategy and reflect the growing recognition that climate change is also a public health emergency.
Engaging Staff to Improve Environmental Health
NHS Trusts are using staff engagement as a core strategy to improve sustainability. Programmes like those run by Manchester University NHS Trust and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust have involved over 23,000 NHS staff in sustainable actions, including reducing energy use, encouraging active travel and food waste reduction.
These initiatives, delivered with Team Jump’s platform, are:
- Fun and gamified through leaderboards and rewards
- Habit-forming to drive long-term change
- Data-driven, tracking real impact across departments
By turning sustainability awareness into team action, Trusts are creating a culture where every member feels they’re part of the net zero mission.
Green Plans and Long-Term Goals
Every NHS Trust is required to create a Green Plan—a three-year roadmap for how they’ll reduce emissions and embed sustainability into operations. The plans are supported by NHS England and The Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, consequently ensuring Trusts have access to tools, training, and peer learning.
Greener Buildings, Cleaner Air
Environmental health requires investment from all sides – in both people and facilities. At Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham, the Trust is installing new windows and heat pumps in order to cut emissions by 10,000 tonnes of CO₂e each year—the equivalent of removing over 2,200 cars from the road. Read more about the project.
These improvements mean:
- Less indoor air pollution
- Lower energy bills
- Healthier spaces for staff and patients
Want to Empower Your NHS Team?
Team Jump helps NHS Trusts design sustainability engagement programmes that are rewarding, measurable, and mission-driven. Our platform supports your Green Plan goals and helps your people make a real difference—every day.
