NHS Scotland - climate emergency and sustainability: annual report 2021 to 2022
Report for 2021 to 2022 providing information on; greenhouse gas emissions arising from the operations of NHS Scotland, actions which have been taken or are underway to reduce NHS Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, and actions to adapt to climate change.
2. Climate Change Adaptation
While efforts to reduce the rate and scale of climate change continue, we must also adapt to the new conditions we are facing. Indeed, there will continue to be climactic effects even if net-zero targets are reached, due to the delay between reducing emissions and their effect on the atmosphere.
The changing climate is increasing risks for health, healthcare assets and health services. More information on these risks in the UK can be found in the UK Climate Change Committee’s Health and Social Care Briefing available here: www.ukclimaterisk.org/independent-assessment-ccra3/briefings/
In June 2019, NHS Chief Executives committed to each Health Board undertaking a Climate Change Risk Assessment covering all operational areas and producing a Climate Change Adaptation Plan to ensure climate-resilient health systems under changing climate conditions [NHS Chief Executives minutes: June 2019 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)]
Fifteen Health Boards have completed a Climate Change Risk Assessment. Building on this, these Health Boards are developing Adaptation Plans. Due to the important role the NHS plays in local communities, this work will contribute to public sector-wide local and regional adaptation planning activity. Further details on progress will be included in future annual reports.
Contact
Email: DHFCGVAdminSupport@gov.scot
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