Valley Northern's Commitment to a Sustainable NHS Future
Posted in: About Valley Northern 25th October 2023.png)
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for environmental sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of business, including healthcare. We are proud to say that Valley Northern has been at the forefront of this movement, and as of April 2022, we achieved a significant milestone: all our NHS procurements now include a minimum of 10% net zero and social value weighting. This commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is not just a goal for us; it's a part of our identity.
Achievement 1: Meeting the 10% Net Zero and Social Value Requirement (April 2022)
Our approach to meeting this requirement involved a multifaceted strategy:
1. Sourcing Sustainable Products: We reevaluated our product catalogue to include a wider range of environmentally friendly options. From eco-friendly packaging to energy-efficient medical equipment, we have made sure that our offerings align with the NHS's sustainability goals.
2. Investing in the Local Community: To fulfil the social value aspect, Valley Northern initiated partnerships with local communities and charities. We are not just a supplier but an active member of the healthcare ecosystem, contributing positively to society.
3. Education and Awareness: We understood the importance of educating our customers and staff about the significance of these changes. We provided training to NHS procurement teams, ensuring that everyone involved was on board with the new standards.
Achievement 2: Publishing a Carbon Reduction Plan (April 2023)
As of April 2023, the NHS mandated that suppliers with contracts above £5 million per annum must publish a carbon reduction plan for their UK scope 1 and 2 emissions and a subset of scope 3 emissions. Valley Northern has successfully met this requirement as well.
We have laid out a comprehensive plan that includes:
1. Measuring and Reporting Emissions: We have invested in advanced emissions tracking systems to accurately measure and report our carbon emissions across scopes 1, 2, and the relevant portions of scope 3. This data transparency is essential for addressing our environmental impact.
2. Carbon Reduction Strategies: Valley Northern has not stopped at measurement; we have developed innovative strategies to reduce carbon emissions across our operations. This includes more energy-efficient warehouses, green transportation solutions, and reducing waste in our supply chain.
The Road Ahead (April 2024 and Beyond)
Valley Northern understands that the journey towards a sustainable future is ongoing. We are fully committed to meeting the NHS's future requirements:
1. April 2024: We are already working on developing a comprehensive carbon reduction plan for all new procurements, as required by the NHS. This proactive approach ensures that every new partnership aligns with our sustainability goals.
2. April 2027: We are prepared to meet the NHS's requirement for suppliers to publicly report targets and emissions for scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions. We will also publish a carbon reduction plan for global emissions in line with the NHS 2045 net-zero targets. This demonstrates our dedication to a global sustainability agenda.
At the end of the day, we are not just a healthcare supplier; we are a committed partner in the NHS's journey towards a sustainable and socially responsible future. By achieving the first two milestones and actively working towards the next two, we are all paving the way for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. Together, we are making a difference.
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