It’s more important than ever that we work to reduce our environmental impact. While some aspects of sustainability are inherently challenging in practice, there are practical steps that can be taken. We’re all familiar with phrases like ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’, but how does this apply in practice?
Here are a few practical suggestions for improving sustainability in your practice:
- Set up effective technology to reduce reliance on paperwork.
- Use recycled materials where possible: for example, recycled prescription packaging.
- Reduce reliance on single-use items where possible, like surgical gowns and tube ties.
- Buy high quality equipment that’s designed to last.
- Source from trustworthy suppliers: at NVS we’re committed to sustainability across all our operations. Find out more about our sustainability programme here.
- Recycle your waste. It’s easy for recyclable materials to end up in the general waste, so consider waste audits and encourage staff to separate out recyclable materials.
- Avoid drug waste through good stocking principles.
- Dispose of drugs correctly to avoid ecotoxicity.
- Consider water saving measures where possible.
- When planning your practice, consider different weather conditions. Insulation and other measures can significantly reduce reliance on heating and air-con.
- Switch appliances off where possible and consider automatic timers for some lights.
- Support sustainable travel – encourage walking, cycling or public transport use by staff and clients.
- Practice responsible antimicrobial and parasiticide use.
Choose sustainable partners
Source from trustworthy suppliers: NVS Group is committed to sustainability across all our operations. Click on the image below to find out more about our sustainability initiative.
Sustainability champion or group
It’s worth nominating someone in your practice to audit your sustainability efforts and suggest improvements – this can really help to keep you on the right track. At every stage, from planning your practice’s design to day-to-day work in practice, thinking of sustainability can not only help to save the planet, but in many cases money too.
For more sustainability inspiration and advice:
Vet Sustain offers valuable resources, education and support to veterinary practices and professionals, wherever you are on your sustainability journey. Read the Vet Sustain Profile in our NVS Group The Cube magazine to find out more about the sustainability resources Vet Sustain provide.
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For more comprehensive information and to ensure you cover all aspects necessary for a successful launch, we invite you to read our Modern Veterinarian’s Guide to Opening a New Practice. An invaluable tool crafted by industry experts, it provides you with essential insights, best practices, and practical tips to ensure your success.
