Hospital staff #WearTheBear

Staff from across Hull Hospitals who have pledged to cut their environmental impact are being invited to #WearTheBear

Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust recently published its Zero30 strategy and Green Plan, ambitious documents designed to support the Trust’s aim to become carbon neutral by 2030 – a full 15 years ahead of targets set by the Department of Health.

At the same time, hospital staff were invited to share their own ideas and examples of steps they have taken to cut their personal carbon emissions or promote sustainability, either at home or at work.

Scores of staff have already made a pledge and are now receiving specially designed Bear badges, made of sustainable bamboo, to wear as an outward show of their commitment.

Trust chief executive, Chris Long, proudly wears the Zero30 bear

Marc Beaumont, Head of Sustainability for the Trust, says:

“We chose the polar bear as our symbol as the melting of the ice caps is something many people associate with global warming and climate change.

“The pin badges are just a small gesture of thanks for all those who have pledged to make more environmentally conscious decisions and to encourage others to do the same, both at home and here in the workplace.

“No matter how big or small, every action can make a difference. It’s great to see so many staff are eager to contribute to our broader carbon reduction plans and to help preserve our planet for generations to come.”

Pledges already made by staff include more frequent use of public transport, using the correct waste streams at work, and supporting the roll-out of digital nursing within the hospitals, which in turn reduces the need for paper and cross-site travel.

No one said tackling climate change would be easy, but its’s got to start somewhere. Why not here? Why not now? Why not us?

If you’re a member of HUTH staff, make your pledge via https://zero30.uk/bear/ to receive your very own bamboo Bear badge in return.

Members of the public are also welcome to share ideas and suggestions via the above link, but we regret we are unable to send badges to individuals outside the Trust.