Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health, Public Health and Social Care System 2014 - 2020

Overview
A new Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health, Public Health and Social Care System 2014 - 2020 has been launched.  Reducing carbon emissions, protecting natural resources, preparing communities for extreme weather events and promoting healthy lifestyles and environments are key to the concept.

Our aim is also to reduce the negative impact on the environment by managing energy use and reducing waste by switching to other sources of energy, improving recycling facilities or using fewer disposable items.

The strategy is supported by five modules, focussing on particular areas of activity. Three further modules will be launched in January 2015 which will be about technology and research, metrics and social capital. A full consultation will begin soon.

Sustainability
The Government defined sustainability in "Securing the Future" 2005 , which states that the five guiding principles of sustainability are:

• Living within environmental limits
• Ensuring a strong, healthy and just society
• Achieving a sustainable economy
• Promoting good governance
• Using sound science responsibly

Sustainability Achievements
Our Sustainable Steering Group is attended regularly by energy/waste/transport manager, catering manager, human resources, procurement and our PFI partners.

CDDFT have successfully completed the NHS Good Corporate Citizen, as recommended by the NHS SDU in their document "Saving Carbon, Improving Health" 2009.

We were benchmarked by an independent assessor in 2009 and we have a verified carbon footprint of 26,662 tonnes of carbon.

CDDFT have an Carbon Management Strategy ratified by the Carbon Trust.

CDDFT have set a target of 4,000 tonnes of carbon reduction from 2007 - 2008 base year.

Sustainability Aims

• Recognised our responsibility to mitigate and prepare for impacts of climate change
• Promote the health and well-being of staff, patients and visitors through behaviour change
• Promote environmental stewardship and the responsible use of resources to minimise costs and maximise funds available for patient care
• Work collaboratively within the NHS and the wider community to promote sustainability
• Embed environmentally sustainable practices and understanding of sustainability within the Trust

Our Sustainability Strategy

Our Sustainability Steering Group Strategy highlights key areas for us to focus on, including:

• Responsibility and accountability
• Environmental legislation
• Energy management
• Procurement
• Travel and transport
• Water and waste management