The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has officially launched its Sustainability Strategy 2026–2030, a comprehensive roadmap designed to transition the organisation toward a net-zero future.

Titled 'Care without Carbon', the strategy outlines a practical framework to decrease environmental impact, cut waste, and enhance the efficiency of the Trust's extensive estate.

The strategy is closely aligned with the NI Climate Change Act, legally committing the Trust to achieve a 48% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. By embedding sustainability into core governance and decision-making, the Trust aims to build a more resilient health system that makes the best possible use of public resources.

The 'Care without Carbon' plan focuses on six strategic priority areas:

• Carbon Emissions: Targeting the 48% reduction through systemic changes.

• Estates, Assets and Utilities: Modernising buildings and optimising energy use.

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• Travel and Transport: Promoting active travel and low-emission fleet options.

• Sustainable Procurement: Working with suppliers to reduce the footprint of the supply chain.

• Waste Management: Implementing circular economy principles to minimise disposal.

• Greenspaces and Biodiversity: Enhancing natural areas across Trust sites for health and environmental benefits.

Mark Bloomer, Assistant Director of Estates Services, emphasised the practical nature of the new goals: "Our Sustainability Strategy gives us a practical and achievable plan for building a greener, more efficient estate that supports better care. From improving our buildings and utilities to promoting active travel, reducing waste and enhancing our green spaces, every part of the organisation has a role to play. Sustainability isn't an add-on — it's essential to how we deliver safe, modern and resilient services for the future."

Catherine Marks, Director of Finance, Procurement and Estates, highlighted the Trust's role as a regional leader in environmental responsibility: "Caring for people means caring for the environment that sustains their health and futures. With one of the largest environmental footprints in our communities, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to lead by example.

"This strategy sets out our promise to cut carbon, reduce costs and safeguard the health and wellbeing of current and future generations. Achieving this ambition will take collective effort from all of us—our staff, suppliers, service users and networks – and together we can make a lasting and positive difference."

The Trust has committed to transparent reporting, with progress updates to be published annually to ensure accountability as it works toward its 2030 targets.