Sustainability in Gastroenterology
The impact of climate change and sustainability on health and healthcare provision is of concern to our members, as it is to our patients and the wider population. Many of our members are already involved in projects to address these issues.
Globally, climate change has major adverse effects on gastrointestinal and liver health, and the ability to deliver effective healthcare. Environmental sustainability of healthcare provision causes concerns including emissions, lack of recycling, use of non-recyclable plastics, and unnecessary travel for patients.
The NHS net zero ambitions are world-leading, and ÌÇÐĹÙÍø and its members have an opportunity to contribute to these aims. We also have an opportunity to collaborate with other national and international partners. The issues around sustainability are complex, and research opportunities exist.
We are pleased to partner with the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare (CSH) on the Green Gastroenterology Challenge 2026, a national initiative fully funded by Micro-Tech UK. The Green Gastroenterology Challenge builds on the success of previous Green Specialty Challenges and supports gastroenterology professionals to lead practical, sustainable quality improvement projects that align NHS Net Zero ambitions with high-quality patient care. Recruitment is now open, six multi-professional teams will be selected and supported throughout the year to develop and deliver impactful projects, with the Challenge culminating in a national online Showcase event in November 2026.
Congratulations to our six shortlisted teams for the Green Gastroenterology Challenge 2026!
They will now work on delivering their sustainable gastro projects with the support of SUSQI methodology led by the Centre for Sustainable Health. We wish them the best of luck and look forward to seeing the sustainable outputs in the autumn.
- Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHSFT - Reduced over utilisation of LFT's
- Newcastle Hospitals NHSFT - Subcutaneous delivery of biology agents at local centres
- Practice Plus group – Penthrox, with the potential to include an alternative to sterile water
- Barnsley District Hospital - Identifying patients at risk of failing their index endoscopy, reducing travel for bowel prep
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary - Biodegradable ERCP stents
- NHS Highlands - Penthrox
Check out the recording of the launch event for the challenge which took place online on 9 February from 18:00 - 19:00 .
Our publications
Other publications
Our collaborative sustainability work