1. Environmental Impact Reduction

Energy Efficiency:

• Reduce Energy Consumption: Implement energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems in the clinic, including motion-sensing lights and energy-saving appliances.

• Encourage Energy-Conscious Behaviour: We encourage staff to turn off lights and electronic devices when not in use by using signage and stickers to remind employees to turn off lights and radiators.

Waste Reduction:

• Minimize Single-Use Items: Move toward reusable materials, especially in examination rooms, surgical areas, and office spaces. Avoid disposable plastics whenever possible.

• Paperless Practices: Implement digital record-keeping, billing, and communication with clients. Limit the use of paper forms and brochures. Recycle paper by using it as note paper rather than message books

• Recycling: Our waste disposal company (Regional Waste) collects our non clinical waste and recycles

• Hazardous Waste Disposal: Using Resting Pets we ensure safe disposal of medical waste (e.g., pharmaceuticals, chemicals) following legal guidelines and regulations

Water Conservation:

• Ensure no taps are leaking and make sure all taps are off after use – if a leaking tap is found it is reported to management.

2. Sustainable Supply Chain and Materials

Sourcing Products:

• Eco-Friendly Supplies: Prioritize the use of sustainably sourced products, such as biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning supplies, and items made from recycled materials.

• Ethical Animal Products: Choose suppliers that adhere to ethical animal welfare standards, including cruelty-free practices and sustainable sourcing of any animal-derived products.

Food and Medications:

• Sustainable Pet Food: Where possible, recommend pet foods that use sustainably sourced ingredients and environmentally responsible packaging.

• Green Pharmacy: We Implement practices to reduce waste from medications, such as encouraging clients to return unused or expired medications for proper disposal.

3. Community Engagement and Education

Staff Training and Awareness:

• Sustainability Training: Provide regular training to staff on sustainability practices, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and ethical sourcing.

• Encourage Employee Initiatives: Empower staff to suggest sustainability initiatives and improvements. We discuss environmental sustainability ideas in weekly practice meetings

Client Communication:

• Promote Sustainable Practices to Clients: Share tips with pet owners on environmentally responsible pet care, such as waste reduction, recycling, and choosing eco-friendly pet products.

• Digital Communication: Our practice management system allows for use digital communication (e.g., appointment reminders, invoices) rather than printed materials.

Green Space Design:

• Outdoor Green Spaces: If possible, create green outdoor areas for staff and animals to enjoy, which could include garden spaces, tree planting, and promoting biodiversity.

• Energy-Efficient Building Features: Invest in building upgrades like double-glazed windows, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and proper insulation to ensure long-term energy savings.

5. Transportation and Fleet Management

Sustainable Transportation:

• Vets bookings are managed so that their appointments are in local areas to each other – this cuts down on fuel consumption and time driving

6. Monitoring and Reporting

Continuous Improvement:

• Sustainability Goals: We aim to set short-term and long-term sustainability goals that are achievable and aligned with broader environmental objectives.

• Conclusion:
  This Sustainability Improvements Policy reflects our commitment to not only providing excellent veterinary care but also taking responsibility for the environment in which we live and work