Sustainability SIG

The Sustainability in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) SIG was created to address the environmental impact of healthcare practices, especially in light of the climate crisis. With the NHS contributing to carbon emissions and infection control practices relying heavily on disposable items, the SIG aims to reduce the environmental harm caused by these practices, working toward a goal of zero impact on the environment. 

The SIG focuses on four main actions: reducing waste by cutting down on single-use items, encouraging the use of reusable alternatives, promoting recycling where possible, and choosing the most sustainable options for products that can’t be reused. The group helps IPC practitioners integrate sustainability into their work and supports IPS in achieving its target of zero emissions from IPC practices by 2030. 

To achieve these goals, the SIG collaborates with NHS sustainability leaders and other healthcare organizations to provide guidance and develop resources. They also share insights and advocate for change to reduce disposable equipment use and promote reusable options in healthcare settings. 

See what the IPS are doing to become more sustainable.

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