BMA: Doctors should address climate change
Monday, 07 Apr 2008 15:41
There are a number of steps the NHS can take to help address climate change, according to the British Medical Association (BMA).
The doctors' group has warned that factors associated with climate change – frequent floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather conditions – could have huge health impacts for the UK.
Its report, Health Professionals – Taking Action on Climate Change, says health professionals should take the lead on this issue.
The BMA argues that doctors have the opportunity and responsibility to highlight the public health risks associated with climate change.
This has been reiterated in guidance issued by the Department of Health, which says health workers throughout the country should play a part in tackling the health effects of climate change.
BMA head of science and ethics Dr Vivienne Nathanson said health professionals are in a unique position to influence and promote social change by addressing climate change.
"The NHS is the largest single organisation in the UK with an annual purchasing budget of around £17 billion. It employs over one million people and emits around one million tonnes of carbon every year," she added.
"There is huge potential for this employer to promote combating climate change. It is essential that when new hospitals, GP surgeries and other premises are being built that we learn from best-practice construction projects."
Dr Nathanson went on: "Given that it is the health service that often picks up the pieces when severe weather conditions strike, it makes sense for the NHS to invest in preventative healthcare and treatment for the health implications relating to climate change.
"Also, as the biggest employer in the UK it needs to take urgent action to address its considerable carbon footprint."
