Our Journey to Net Zero by 2050
At Routes Healthcare, we're committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. This means we'll remove as much carbon from the atmosphere as we produce, helping protect the health of our communities and planet.
As a home care provider with 1,500 employees caring for people across Northern England, we understand our responsibility. Climate change affects health and we're taking action to be part of the solution.
Why This Matters
Healthcare creates significant carbon emissions worldwide. Every journey our carers make, every piece of equipment we use and every building we operate contributes to our carbon footprint.
By reducing our emissions, we:
- Protect the health of the communities we serve
- Reduce air pollution that affects breathing conditions
- Save money that we can invest back into care
- Meet new NHS requirements for all suppliers
- Show leadership in sustainable healthcare
Our 3 Main Goals
Our Starting Point
We've already begun our journey with several successful initiatives:
- Smarter routes: Using technology to plan the most efficient journeys for our carers
- Less waste: Reducing disposable glove use while maintaining safety standards
- Going digital: Moving from paper to digital records
- Better lighting: Installing energy-efficient LED lights in our buildings
- Smaller spaces: Making better use of our offices to reduce energy use
These early wins show us what's possible when we work together for change.
By 2030: Halfway There
- Cut our carbon emissions in half
- Have electric vehicles for most local journeys
- Complete energy upgrades in all buildings
- Establish green partnerships with key suppliers
By 2040
- Reduce emissions by 80%
- Use renewable energy at all sites
- Offer digital options for many services
- Lead the way in sustainable home care
By 2050
- Achieve net zero carbon emissions
- Use clean energy and transport throughout
- Offset any remaining emissions through certified projects
- Continue improving and sharing our learning
How We'll Do It
Leadership and Accountability
- Board-level commitment with regular progress reviews
- Dedicated sustainability team to drive change
- Clear targets and transparent reporting
- Regular updates to staff and community
Smart Technology
- Route planning software to reduce miles traveled
- Digital care records to eliminate paper
- Video consultations to reduce unnecessary journeys
- Energy monitoring to identify savings
Staff Engagement
- Environmental training for all employees
- Green champions in every location
- Recognition for sustainability ideas
- Support for greener travel choice
Funding Our Future
We're accessing government grants and green financing to fund these changes without affecting care quality. Many improvements, like LED lighting and efficient vehicles, save money over time.
Benefits for Everyone
For Our Clients
- Cleaner air in your communities
- Continued high-quality care
- More convenient digital options
- Pride in choosing a sustainable care provider
For Our Staff
- Healthier working environment
- Modern electric vehicles to drive
- Opportunities to make a difference
- Skills for the future
For Our Commnities
- Reduced local air pollution
- Support for local green businesses
- Leadership in sustainable healthcare
- Protection for future generations
How You Can Help
If You're a Client or Family Member
If You're a Client or Family Member
- Consider video consultations when suitable
- Share feedback on our sustainability efforts
- Support our move to digital communications
- Spread the word about our commitment
If You're a Staff Member
If You're a Staff Member
- Share ideas for reducing waste and emissions
- Consider greener travel options
- Become a green champion in your team
- Use energy wisely in our buildings
If You're a Supplier or Partner
- Share your sustainability plans with us
- Work together on reducing packaging
- Consider local and low-carbon options
- Innovate with us for greener solutions
Measuring Our Progress
We'll track our carbon footprint carefully and report progress annually. This includes:
We'll track our carbon footprint carefully and report progress annually. This includes:
- Miles traveled by our care teams
- Energy used in our buildings
- Waste produced and recycled
- Emissions from our supply chain
We'll be transparent about our successes and challenges, learning and adapting as we go.
Our Commitment
Reaching net zero by 2050 isn't just an environmental goal – it's about ensuring healthier communities for everyone we serve. We're committed to this journey because:
- Your health and the planet's health are connected
- We have a responsibility to future generations
- Sustainable care is better care
- Together, we can make a real difference
Join Our Journey
This is just the beginning. We'll share regular updates on our progress and welcome your ideas and feedback. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future for home care. For more information or to share your thoughts, contact our sustainability team at sustainability@routeshealthcare.co.uk
