National Green Renal Programme

The new National Green Renal Programme aims to reduce the environmental impact of renal procedures across NHS Scotland.

Renal is a vital service, but it is also one of the most resource-intensive areas. Renal care, particularly in-centre haemodialysis (HD), contributes a disproportionately high percentage to overall hospital or healthcare emissions, especially when compared to the number of patients treated. It also contributes substantially to carbon emissions and environmental harm.

Building on the success of the National Green Theatres Programme, GHS has been launched to identify and implement practical, evidence-based actions that make renal care greener, smarter and more sustainable.

Working in partnership with clinicians, sustainability leads and national organisations, the programme aims to:

• Reduce carbon emissions and waste across renal services.
• Embed sustainability into clinical practice without compromising patient safety or quality.
• Support NHS Scotland’s journey to net zero, rethinking how care is delivered for a healthier planet