At Queens Road Medical Practice, sustainability is at the core of our values. Through our dedicated ‘Green Team’ we’re driving initiatives that align with Guernsey’s commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, recognising the profound connection between planetary health and human health.

We are already seeing the effects of climate change through changing weather patterns, extreme weather events and a warming planet. Right now, society’s actions are hurting our health and our planet’s health, we have the power to make positive change for ourselves, our communities and our planet.

Our approach to sustainable healthcare

Sustainable healthcare means delivering exceptional patient care while minimising environmental impact. By modernising our operations, reducing waste and promoting preventive health measures, we aim to create better results for patients and the planet. Greener practices not only improve care quality but also reduce costs and carbon footprints.

We’re proud members of Greener Practice and have adopted the Green Impact for Health Toolkit, endorsed by The Royal College of General Practitioners. This framework supports our ongoing projects, which include:

• Monitoring and optimising energy use
• Encouraging active travel with events like Alternative Travel Week
• Enhancing biodiversity around our sites, such as working with Ladies’ College students on our front garden, now home to a bug hotel and bird houses
• Improving digital workflows and clinical waste management
• Providing better asthma care while reducing environmental harm

Why climate change matters to healthcare

Climate change is not just an environmental issue; there is now evidence that climate change is the greatest threat to public health in the 21^st century and we have a responsibility to tackle climate change.

Rising global temperatures and extreme weather events threaten the foundations of good health, increasing the prevalence of heat-related illnesses, respiratory conditions and infectious diseases. Actions to combat climate change, like reducing air pollution and promoting active travel, simultaneously address health inequalities and enhance wellbeing.

Our commitment

We have declared a climate emergency, acknowledging that the health of our community depends on accelerated action. By reducing carbon emissions and fostering a culture of sustainability, we aim to protect the health of current and future generations.

We want to make a difference for our staff, patients and local communities now and for future generations.

If you have any suggestions, it would be great to hear from you, please email us at admin@eqrmp.com.

Further information: 

World Bank - The climate crisis is driving a global public health emergency

Greener NHS – Health and climate change (england.nhs.uk)

The Lancet - Countdown on health and climate change

Health Declares – Climate Crisis is a Health Crisis

The Real Cost of Climate Change: Global Public Health