In 2021 we commenced our sustainable goals and action plan, a detailed plan to assess and manage our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint. Although a fluid and ever-changing plan we are in fact currently working towards the aims and objectives of the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap.

Our Net Zero policy outlines the commitment of Specialist Medical Transport Ltd to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions in line with NHS England’s target of Net Zero by 2040 for direct emissions and by 2045 for indirect emissions.

The use of Evergreen Sustainable Supplier Assessment Tool to engage with the NHS on its sustainability journey has provided a mechanism for SMT Ambulance Service to showcase our net zero progress and wider sustainability efforts in line with the NHS Net Zero Pledge.

Through our green policies, use of innovative technology to streamline processes and maintain our no waste policy, and carbon reduction initiatives SMT Ambulance Service aims is we feel ahead of the curve in obtaining carbon neutrality. This is in line with the Governments Net Zero Strategy to utilise innovation to reach net zero.

SMT is accredited to ISO14001:2004 providing the framework for a holistic, strategic approach to our environmental policy, plans and actions. Our activities are continually monitored and evaluated in relation to best practice, an example of this is between 2020 and 2022 SMT have saved 43 trees from destruction based on our fleets CO2e initiatives alone. SMT have further implemented the following initiatives to reduce the company’s impact on the environment:

• Euro 6 Ambulances
• Car Share Initiative
• Bike 2 Work Scheme
• Using Ad blue additive to reduce emissions
• Hybrid Vehicles Trials
• Using locally based vendors for consumables
• Servicing vehicles 2500 – 5000 miles before manufacturers guidelines

Over the next three years SMT will continue to improve on these and reach our carbon neutral goal through purchasing electric and hybrid vehicles, carbon offsetting, supply chain and infrastructure streamlining while upgrading to energy efficient equipment which can take advantage of our plan to utilise solar and wind power sources.

We have a corporate account with Fuel Store, and we also are signed up to their Target Neutral scheme. For every tonne of CO2e we produce we contribute to carbon mitigation projects throughout the world to offset our fleet’s CO2e impact.

To manage the environmental impact of delivering the contract and improve sustainability SMT Ambulance will follow a six-stage comprehensive approach.

Stage 1: Initial Assessment

Conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment to identify potential areas of concern and establish a baseline for future improvements.

Stage 2: Sustainable Procurement

Prioritise suppliers and materials with strong environmental credentials, such as those with eco-certifications, sustainable sourcing and minimal packaging whilst maintaining infection prevention and control standards. Establish green procurement criteria to ensure all future purchases align with SMTs sustainability goals.

Stage 3: Energy Efficiency

Optimisation of energy consumption across all operations through the upgrade of equipment to energy efficient machines (A rating), lighting and appliances. Implementation of renewable energy sources to offset consumption. Investment into fleet conversion to EV/Hybrid vehicles.

Stage 4: Waste Reduction and Recycling

Implement a comprehensive waste management plan with the focus on recycling, composting and responsible disposal of hazardous materials. Minimise use of single use items and adoption of reusable alternatives where practically and clinically proven under IP&C and NICE guidelines.

Stage 5: Employee Engagement

Foster a culture of sustainability by educating employees about environmental practices and involving them in eco-friendly initiatives. Establish incentives for employees who contribute innovative ideas for reducing the contracts environmental impact.

Stage 6: Reporting and Transparency

Regularly track and report on key environmental metrics, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste reduction, to monitor progress. Communicate transparently with stakeholders about the contract’s environmental performance and improvements.

Alongside SMT’s six staged approach we have designed a comprehensive three-year plan of reaching our carbon neutral goal of Net Zero.

THE PLAN

Phase 1 

• 15 % Reduction in carbon emissions compared to the baseline

• Phased replacement of diesel-powered vehicles with hybrid engine vehicles.

• Replacement of older computer equipment and upgrade of our server capability to be solar powered with UPS Capability.

• Installation / further roll out of low energy (LED) lighting

• PIR LED lighting in low use areas

• Recycling of used printer & photocopier toner cartridges

• Shredding & subsequent recycling of all wastepaper

• Recycling where appropriate of all packaging materials.

• Recycling of vehicle oils, tyres etc.

• Carbon offsetting

• Waste reduction initiatives – with a target of a 20% decrease in overall waste generation

Phase 2

• Source at least 50% of materials from eco-friendly suppliers and products

• Renewable energy project – expand current capacity to cover 25% of total energy consumption

• Collaborate with local communities on environmental projects, such as tree planting or community clean ups

Phase 3

• Attain a minimum of 25% reduction in carbon emissions.

• 30% of the Total fleet to be hybrid or electric.

This is a plan that will evolve in line with the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap. It will be our intention to report yearly on our progress to ensure we meet all the necessary targets.