GoodOaks News, Homecare News | 2 December 2024

Improving sustainability practices with carbon-neutral homecare services

At GoodOaks, we’re committed to sustainability, improving PPE practices, reducing travel emissions and leading the way in carbon-neutral homecare services.

carbon-neutral homecare services - Carbon footprint from car travel

The homecare and care home industry plays a crucial role in supporting the elderly and vulnerable populations, providing essential services that enhance quality of life.

However, the industry’s reliance on resources such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and the need for frequent car travel between home visits have brought sustainability concerns to the forefront.

We at GoodOaks are one of the first UK homecare companies to become carbon neutral for these reasons. With the increasing awareness of climate change and the environmental impacts of healthcare operations, it is vital for this sector to adopt more sustainable practices.

The environmental impact of PPE use

During the COVID-19 pandemic, PPE became an indispensable part of the care industry. Masks, gloves, gowns and face shields were used in unprecedented quantities, leading to a significant rise in medical waste. While PPE is necessary to protect both care professionals and clients, its extensive use comes with a heavy environmental toll.

According to a study published in the ‘Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine’, the UK generated an estimated 590 million pieces of PPE waste in just three months during the pandemic. Most of these materials are single-use plastics that end up in landfills or are incinerated, releasing harmful emissions and contributing to pollution. This high level of waste production poses serious challenges, prompting the need for the industry to rethink its approach to PPE use and disposal.

Solutions for Sustainable PPE Use:
Reusable PPE: Shifting to reusable PPE items, such as washable gowns and masks, can significantly reduce waste. Companies can also invest in high-quality, durable PPE that can be sanitised and used multiple times.
Biodegradable alternatives: Utilising biodegradable or compostable PPE made from sustainable materials like cornstarch or plant-based fibres can minimise environmental impact.
Effective waste management: Establishing recycling programs specifically for PPE and educating staff on proper disposal can help mitigate some of the waste issues.

Carbon footprint from car travel

Another significant contributor to the industry’s carbon footprint is the transportation required for homecare services. Care professionals must travel between multiple clients in a single day, leading to a high volume of car trips and, consequently, carbon emissions.

According to the UK Department for Transport, transport accounts for approximately 27% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with cars being the largest contributor.

For homecare providers who serve clients across dispersed locations, this reliance on cars poses a challenge. While public transport could be an alternative, it is not always feasible due to scheduling constraints or the need for immediate travel between clients.

Strategies for Reducing Carbon Emissions:

– Electric vehicles (EVs): Transitioning to electric or hybrid vehicles can drastically reduce the carbon emissions associated with travel. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and their growing affordability and charging infrastructure make them a practical option for care providers.
– Optimised route planning: Utilising route optimization software can help reduce the distance travelled by care teams, lowering fuel consumption and emissions. By grouping clients based on proximity, companies can improve operational efficiency and reduce their environmental impact.
– Encouraging active transport: Where possible, encouraging staff to use bicycles or walk for shorter distances can reduce the reliance on cars. This not only benefits the environment but also promotes health and well-being among care teams.

carbon-neutral homecare services Carbon footprint from car travel

The need for industry-wide sustainability initiatives: carbon-neutral homecare services

While individual efforts by care providers are essential, industry-wide action is needed to drive substantial change. Healthcare organisations, regulatory bodies and local governments must work together to create frameworks and incentives for adopting sustainable practices.

Implementing mandatory sustainability guidelines, offering financial support for green initiatives and providing training for care staff are just a few ways the sector can accelerate its journey towards sustainability.

Potential industry initiatives:

– Sustainability certifications: Developing certifications or awards for homecare and care home providers that meet certain sustainability criteria can encourage more companies to adopt eco-friendly practices.
– Government incentives: Offering subsidies or tax reductions for companies that invest in green technologies, such as EVs or renewable energy sources, can make sustainable practices more economically viable.
– Sustainability education: Integrating sustainability training into the professional development of care professionals can foster a culture of environmental responsibility within the industry.

A call to action for a greener future

The homecare and care home industry has a responsibility to not only provide high-quality care but also consider its environmental footprint.

By reducing the waste associated with PPE use, lowering carbon emissions from travel and embracing industry-wide sustainability initiatives, the sector can play a pivotal role in combating climate change.

Transitioning to sustainable practices may require upfront investments and operational changes, but the long-term benefits for both the environment and the quality of care provided are immeasurable. It is time for the industry to lead by example, showing that healthcare and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

By making these changes, the homecare and care home industry can continue to support the elderly and vulnerable populations while ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.

GoodOaks has been awarded Carbon Footprint accreditation after offsetting our carbon emissions. This followed an audit of our carbon emissions across all of our offices in the UK. Carbon Footprint evaluates the emissions that we record each year and identify recommendations for reducing these.

The majority of our emissions were generated by care professionals travelling by car to provide care at clients’ homes. The other significant source of emissions was electricity consumption across the multiple sites.

These will be offset via a tree-planting scheme in the South West, which plants trees at schools and other biodiversity sites.

At GoodOaks, we are committed to leading the way in sustainable care. Contact us today to learn how our carbon-neutral homecare services can benefit your loved ones.