Environmental Management

The Environmental Management Unit (EMU) is the centre of ‘green’ improvements within North Bristol NHS Trust.

The department is divided into two work areas:

1. Waste management, covering correct segregation, staff training and legal compliance regarding clinical, general, hazardous, confidential and recycling wastes
2. Treading Lightly, the Trust’s environmental campaign

Treading Lightly aims to reduce the Trust’s consumption of electricity, gas and water, increase recycling and promote greener travel options. We take on board suggestions from staff regarding improvements that could be made around the sites on any environmental topic. There is also a dedicated group of staff volunteers who act as Environmental Awareness Representatives.

The most significant success of environmental management is the introduction of recycling to the Trust. As recycling is more cost effective than sending waste to landfill, a saving of around £40,000 every year is made. It is initiatives such as this that has contributed to the campaign winning the Green Champion Award at the Green Apple Awards 2011, the top award given in the NHS category. The Green Organisation is an independent, non-political, non-activist, non-profit environment group dedicated to recognising, rewarding and promoting environmental best practice around the world.