This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Deacon Urges NHS To Deliver On Environmental Responsibilities
03/08/2000
Scottish Health Minister Susan Deacon today outlined her desire to see a modern NHS which delivers on its environmental responsibilities at the same time as it delivers on health care.
The Minister made her comments as she presented the annual Greencode Environment Awards on behalf of the NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum at the Edinburgh Conference Centre, Heriot Watt University.
Awards were given to those who have promoted environmentally friendly policies within NHS bodies across Scotland.
Ms Deacon said:
"Our capacity to deliver improvements in the health and well-being of the Scottish people go beyond simply what is done or what is spent by the health service.
"The parent of a child with asthma is every bit as concerned about the quality of the air that that child breathes as the quality of health care he or she receives.
"The treatment of skin cancer may be a matter for health professionals and for the health service, but its incidence is affected by global environmental changes.
"These are just a couple of examples of why we must think and act in a joined up way. That is why it is right and proper that the NHS takes seriously environmental issues and, literally, builds environmental concerns into its policies and practices.
"The arguments for improved energy efficiency have never been more compelling. The Climate Change Levy to be introduced in April 2001 will increase the cost of energy to business, including the NHS in Scotland.
"We in the Scottish Executive have already taken the initiative and secured 100% of our electricity requirements from renewable sources. This will save us about £1m. I would like to see other public sector organisations following this lead.
"All staff have a role in improving the quality of patient care. Whether at the bedside, or masterminding a complex property project, or making sure that the right pipe is connected to the right valve.
"We must have a modern NHS in Scotland which delivers on its environmental responsibilities at the same time as it delivers better health care."
BACKGROUND
1. For more information on the recipients of the Greencode Environment Awards contact Forum Business Manager Evelyn Russell on 0780 1068170.
News Release: SE2172/2000
3 Aug 2000