Lord Darzi’s independent review of the NHS painted a bleak picture, concluding that the NHS is in a “critical condition.” But there is a green shoot.
Darzi reinforced how important the climate agenda is and that it should not be considered in isolation from other system pressures.
He says: “There is no trade-off between climate responsibilities and reducing waiting lists. Indeed, often health and climate are mutually reinforcing goals: cleaner air is good for the environment and for respiratory health.” He references the work to electrify the NHS vehicles saving over £59million annually while cleaning up the air.
Darzi’s review of the Greener NHS programme is covered in the chapter focussed on ‘Health and prosperity’ where he reinforces the collective need to play our part in our national drive to net zero – this includes reaching net zero by 2040 for its direct emissions and 2045 for wider emissions such as those of suppliers.
So, its business as usual where the green agenda is concerned.