Reducing waste

Practices are encouraged to take action by raising awareness with staff on waste disposal so that correct bins are used and correct recycling is in place for non-confidential paper, plastics, glass, soft plastics and office equipment such as electrical equipment, printer cartridges and pens. Many suppliers now have their own recycling schemes so do ask whether they can support.

Practices should also take measures to reduce inappropriate use of personal protective equipment where appropriate, print less or print double-sided if printing is essential, reuse scrap paper, use text messaging and email for patient communication where appropriate and ask patients to return unwanted/unused medication to their pharmacy for safe disposal.

Many of our practices are already taking most of these green measures including Broom Leys Surgery in Coalville. Find out about their green initiatives here.