NSW Health has launched its inaugural NSW Health Net Zero Roadmap, which sets out how the state’s public health system plans to reach zero emissions by 2050 while delivering quality, value, innovation and equity.
The Government says the delivery of a modern, low carbon, low waste, climate resilient health system is at the heart of the new roadmap.
The Roadmap aligns closely with Future Health: guiding the next decade of care in NSW 2022-2032, setting the strategic priorities for the next decade and, in particular, the commitment to an environmentally sustainable footprint for future healthcare.
“The NSW Health Net Zero Roadmap shows action is being delivered across the whole of government to deliver on our Net Zero targets,” said Minister for Climate Change, Penny Sharpe.
“I commend NSW Health for their leadership to reduce the effects of climate change.”
The Roadmap outlines six strategic priority areas which will support NSW Health to meet the ambitious net zero target, including:
- Healthcare – transitioning to modern high quality, low carbon models of care.
- Land and buildings – decarbonising design, construction, use and disposal of buildings and being stewards of land and waters
- Energy and water – improving air quality and health by using natural resources in sustainable ways
- Supply Chain – reducing environmental and financial supply chain costs through the purchase of goods and services and drive circularity
- Travel and transport –improving air quality and health by shifting towards active modes of transport, electrifying NSW Health transportation, and exploring new ways to deliver care remotely
- Food services –sustainable sourcing, production and provision of high quality, healthy food for patients, whilst minimising food waste
“The NSW Health Net Zero Roadmap will help us meet the ambitious goal of reaching zero emissions by 2050, all while clinicians and health care workers continue to deliver high quality care to the community,” said Minister for Health, Ryan Park.
“I’m grateful to everyone involved in the Roadmap’s development, taking a strategic and active approach to reducing waste and emissions, while maintaining and improving our high standards of care.
“The health of the planet is deeply linked with public health and this Roadmap will support a healthier and more sustainable community.”
NSW Health Secretary, Susan Pearce AM said the healthcare sector had historically been a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
“We all need to play our part to create a cleaner and more sustainable future,” she said.
“To that end, NSW Health staff are implementing innovative programs, technologies, policies and practices towards the NSW Government’s net zero targets.”
For more information on the plan visit the NSW Health website.
