The NHS became the world’s first health system to commit to reaching net zero emissions in October 2020. But bold national commitments only become reality through the people doing the work at the point of care. In this Insight from Episode 104: Practicing Green Health, Emma Pascale Blakey, PhD, RN, Nurse Lead for Sustainability at NHS England, makes the case that nurses and midwives have a valuable perspective as researchers and scientists in this equation and they are an invaluable resource when it comes to sustainability solutions. From drones delivering chemotherapy to the Isle of Wight, to health visitors cycling between family visits, to clinical procurement nurses influencing what equipment gets ordered, nurses are leading the way when it comes to sustainability.
I would love for nurses and midwives to come away recognizing that actually they’re already doing a huge amount to get us there. And we need to own that and be more visible about it.
If you know a healthcare professional whose work reflects grit, innovation or extraordinary care—or if that story is your own—we encourage you to apply for the TIME Healthcare Champion of the Year, in partnership with Johnson & Johnson, a branded award.
