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 BSG 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.
Find out moreGreen Gastroenterology Challenge 2026 - launch event recording
Check out the recording of the launch event which took place online on 9 February from 18:00 - 19:00 here.
Our publications
Other publications
Our collaborative sustainability work