Meopham Medical Centre Commits to a Greener Future

Meopham Medical Centre is proud to announce that we have signed up for the Green Impact for Health Toolkit and are actively taking steps to reduce our carbon footprint. Climate change is a health emergency, and healthcare in the UK contributes to 5.4% of the nation’s carbon emissions. This presents many challenges for the future of primary care, but together, we can make meaningful changes that will not only improve our patients' health but also address the environmental challenges ahead.

Why Sustainability Matters in Healthcare

Our mission is to enhance the health of our current population without compromising the well-being of future generations. This requires operating within the sustainable boundaries of our planet. Fortunately, many of the actions that benefit the environment also lead to improved health outcomes. For example:

• Eating a predominantly plant-based diet

• Engaging in active travel and exercising in nature

• Avoiding smoking

• Reducing pollution

These choices not only enhance our health but also reduce our reliance on medications, thereby benefiting the NHS, improving public health, and lowering the carbon footprint of healthcare.

The Benefits of Addressing Climate Change in General Practice

Taking action on climate change offers numerous advantages for patients, healthcare providers, and the NHS as a whole. Some key benefits include:

• Reducing health inequalities – Climate change disproportionately affects lower-income populations.

• Improving patient health – Cleaner air and increased physical activity contribute to better overall well-being.

• Reducing GP workload – Healthier patients require fewer appointments and prescriptions.

• Lowering costs for Practices – Rising energy and procurement costs make sustainability a financial priority.

• Protecting our future health – Addressing extreme weather, air and water quality issues, and vector-borne diseases ensures long-term well-being.

The Green Impact for Health Toolkit

The Green Impact for Health Toolkit is a free online resource designed to help general practices in the UK make informed decisions regarding climate and ecological sustainability. Given that the NHS is responsible for 4-5% of the UK’s carbon footprint, this toolkit provides practical steps for improving sustainability, reducing environmental impact, adapting to climate risks, and cutting practice expenses.

By using this toolkit, general practices can assess their sustainability efforts, implement eco-friendly solutions, and contribute to a healthier future for both patients and the planet. It offers guidance on multiple areas of sustainability, answering the key question: “What can you do in your practice?”

Moving Forward Together

At Meopham Medical Centre, we are committed to making a positive impact. We encourage our patients and staff to support greener healthcare initiatives and make choices that benefit both individual well-being and the environment.

For more information, please visit Greener Practice and explore how you can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Green Impact | Students Organising for Sustainability
Green Impact is SOS-UK’s sustainability engagement programme for teams.

Published: Mar 13, 2025