CARBON emissions from NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s buildings fell by almost six per cent in the past year, according to new figures.
The reduction is being highlighted during Climate Week as part of the organisation’s work towards becoming a Net Zero health service by 2040, with energy use across hospitals, health centres and other buildings continuing to be reduced.
Ryan Jack, Energy and Sustainability Manager, said: “This is a fantastic outcome and reflects the practical changes being made across our buildings. We know there is much more to do, but reducing energy use and carbon emissions while continuing to provide vital healthcare shows that progress is being made.”
Building energy emissions fell to 11,407 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2025/2-6 – a 5.9 per cent reduction on the previous year. Energy use itself fell by 1.2 per cent.
The changes include the continued roll-out of LED lighting, better use of space and the introduction of solar panels.
The Board has 44 buildings across the region, including Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, Galloway Community Hospital, Midpark Hospital, cottage hospitals, community health and social care hubs and other facilities. Reducing the carbon footprint across the estate is a key ambition for the Board.
Work is already underway to improve heating systems and energy performance, including a heating strategy at Mountainhall Treatment Centre in Dumfries and improvements to the building management system at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
The latest figures also show that emissions from grid electricity have fallen by more than half compared with the 2015/16 baseline, while recognising changes in how some heat emissions are classified.
The latest figures demonstrate that cutting the carbon footprint of healthcare is becoming part of the day-to-day running of NHS buildings across the region.
Valerie White, Director of Public Health and Executive Director Lead for Climate Action, said: “Climate change is already affecting health and wellbeing, both in the UK and across the world. As a healthcare organisation, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has a responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of how we deliver care.
“Cutting emissions from our buildings, energy use and day-to-day operations is an important part of protecting health now and for future generations. This progress shows that practical action can make a real difference, and we remain committed to building a more sustainable, climate-resilient health service for Dumfries and Galloway.”