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Welcome to the latest edition of the Health and Social Care Climate Emergency National Programme Newsletter. Here you will find regular National Programme updates, examples of inspirational and sector transforming activity and resources and details of how you can get involved.
In this edition:
SPOTLIGHT ON...
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board - Turning waste into something wonderful! |
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Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board partnered with Natural UK to tackle plastic waste in an innovative way — recovering plastics from the clinical waste stream and giving them a second life.
The reclaimed plastic has been transformed into:
- Benches
- Picnic tables
- Bird boxes
- Planters
These items have been donated across the Health Board for staff and patient use, creating practical, visible benefits from sustainable action.
This fantastic initiative has been recognised nationally, with the project being entered into the Awards for Excellence 2026 under Innovation of the Year.
A brilliant example of sustainability delivering real‑world impact.
Programme Related Update
Climate Emergency Spread and Scale Leadership Day |
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This February, the Health and Social Care Climate Emergency National Programme hosted its second Climate Emergency Spread & Scale Leadership Day.
The event brought together senior leaders from across NHS Wales, showcasing projects that:
- Support climate change commitments
- Improve patient outcomes
- Reduce costs
- Strengthen staff engagement
Participants shared practical initiatives already making a difference — and explored how these can be scaled across the system.
Find out more about the projects who presented and how they’re helping to shape a more sustainable and resilient health and social care system.
To connect with any of the projects, contact: HSC.ClimateChangeAndEPH@gov.wales
Be Inspired!
Greener Primary Care Wales Marks Major Milestones in Environmental Sustainability Drive |
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The Greener Primary Care Wales Framework and Award Scheme continues to grow, with practices reporting measurable environmental improvements and stronger staff engagement.
During a recent national celebratory webinar, teams shared how the Framework is transforming daily practice. Senior leaders from Public Health Wales and Welsh Government thanked participants for their efforts. Watch the webinar here.
Since 2022, over 400 GP, dental, pharmacy and optometry teams have reduced carbon, cut waste and embedded sustainable habits. The structured approach is helping practices turn plans into action.
- Dr Anna Mackenzie achieved major reductions in single‑use plastics and improved energy efficiency.
- Yvie Powe, Gwaun Cae Gurwen Dental Practice, said sustainability is now “part of how we deliver quality care.”
- Emily‑Ann Frost, Specsavers Monmouth, highlighted the impact of recent flooding and encouraged small, meaningful actions.
Case studies can be found here.
The webinar also highlighted greener inhaler initiatives, active travel promotion and cost‑saving changes that benefit patients. One participant said: “The framework gave us confidence. Small changes add up—and primary care can lead the way.”
The Scheme is now a key driver of sustainable, climate‑resilient primary care in Wales. Learn more at Greener Primary Care Wales or contact greenerprimarycare@wales.nhs.uk.
Get Involved!
Have Your Say - Help NHS Wales prepare for Climate Change |
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Climate change is already affecting our communities and the way we work. We’re asking all NHS Wales staff to share their experiences in a short, confidential survey to help shape future training and support.
The survey is open until 8th March 2026.
Please share widely with your networks.
Be part of Wales’ Climate Action |
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Take a look at the inspiring commitments already featured on the Climate Action Wales Pledge Wall.
Every pledge counts! Why not add your own Climate Action pledge today?
In case you missed it...
WLGA Climate Spotlight Sessions |
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WLGA have been holding regular, 45-minute sessions focussed on a particular topic with guest speakers and an interactive Q&A.
The latest session with Climate Outreach took place in January.
If you have missed any of the sessions, you can watch the recordings.
Related Resources
Just Transition Framework |
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The Just Transition Framework outlines how Wales will reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 in a way that shares the benefits, opportunities and costs fairly across society.
The Framework is designed for all organisations involved in climate action in Wales, including public bodies.
For further information please contact the Decarbonisation mailbox.
Wales Fleet Forum Community |
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The new Wales Fleet Forum on MS Teams supports public sector organisations transitioning to zero‑emission vehicles.
Connect with peers, share best practice, access expert guidance, and receive updates on funding and policy.
Whether new to fleet decarbonisation or scaling existing work, you can join by contacting transport@energyservice.wales
What's On?
13 – 29 March: The Great British Spring Clean
The Great British Spring Clean is a mass action environmental campaign through organised litter picking.
16-27 March: Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel
Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel encourages pupils to make active journeys to school and learn about the benefits these changes can make.
18 March: Global Recycling Day
Global Recycling Day celebrates the importance of recycling in preserving our planet.
21 March: International Day of the Forests
The International Day of the Forests raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests, and trees outside forests, for the benefit of current and future generations.
Could you or your organisation get involved in these events and help make a difference!
Watch and Learn
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We have produced two short bilingual explainer videos to simply describe the main aims and objectives of the National Programme and what you can do to help.
Please share our videos with your teams, stakeholders and networks to communicate the work we are doing.
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Our Call to Action
Tell staff and colleagues about the Climate and Health Emergency and our work
Ask your organisation about their Decarbonisation Action Plan
Share our newsletter and videos
Connect with your local Green Group
Contact us to find out more at:
HSC.ClimateChangeandEPH@gov.wales
Get Involved!
We want to share and celebrate your sustainability best practice and case studies across Health and Social Care in Wales!
If you would like to include an item in a future edition of this newsletter:
1. Draft a 30 - 50 word explanation
2. Include any appropriate links to webpages / PDFs / images
3. Send it to HSC.ClimateChangeandEPH@gov.wales
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