IT & Other

The global information and communications technology (ICT) industry accounts for approximately two percent of global carbon emissions, a figure equivalent to aviation. All NHS organisations require significant ICT infrastructure, so organisations should work with national supply agencies to develop a specification for ICT provision which fits criteria for low carbon manufacture, energy use, and disposal.

The NHS should routinely do business with providers who can demonstrate the most innovative technology solutions that will reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Many ICT companies take the provision of low carbon ICT seriously and the NHS should systematically support such innovations. NHS organisations should emulate and exceed the private sector in challenging their ICT providers to develop a low carbon ICT contracts.

Other purchases, from large medical equipment to office paper, should be subject to a thorough tender process, with carbon reduction adn sustainability at its heart. The NHS should strive to go beyond minimum government standards for purchasing, and should follow both sustainable and ethical guidelines.