Welcome to 'Green Rabbits' the monthly newsletter from the Campaign for Greener Healthcare for an update on sustainable healthcare news, events, resources and our projects. The primary source of information about the Campaign, including an archive of these newsletters, is our website at www.greenerhealthcare.org.

CARBON FOOTPRINT OF A RENAL SERVICE POINTS FINGER AT DRUGS AND EQUIPMENT

A carbon footprint study of a UK renal service, undertaken by Green Nephrology Fellow, Dr Andy Connor, and published in the Quarterly Journal of Medicinethis month, confirms the importance of tackling supply chain emissions, revealing that the procurement of goods and services accounts for 72% of the carbon impact of kidney care. Within procurement, the majority of emissions are attributable to pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and waste services.

http://greenerhealthcare.org/news/2010/08/carbon-footprint-renal-service...

DISEASE PATTERNS: MULTIPLYING THE POWER OF PREVENTION

THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF TAR SANDS: A LOSE-LOSE SITUATION HIGHLIGHTED AT UK CLIMATE CAMP 2010

We know that smoking tar isn’t very good for us, but what about extracting oil from it? The new Enbridge pipeline will displace 50 First Nations communities in British Columbia. (northern-indymedia.org/videos/882) Two representatives from affected communities in Canada attended the Camp for Climate Action in Edinburgh this week. They wanted to tell their story and tell the UK public that banks which they bailed out with taxes are financing tar sands extraction projects and damaging the health and livelihoods of their people.

http://greenerhealthcare.org/blog/2010/08/health-effects-tar-sands-lose-...

CLIMATE 9 REMAIN DEFIANT AFTER COURT SENTENCING

Nine Plane Stupid protesters who shut down Aberdeen airport on the morning of March 3rd 2009 appeared in court on 25th August to finally receive their sentences. The judge and court took the protesters' urgent message on climate change seriously and gave out very modest fines ranging from £300 to £700 each adding up to a total cost of around £4000 - £5000.

2 days before sentencing one of Britain's best-known defence barristers also threw his weight behind the Climate9 before they were due to be sentenced in Aberdeen Crown Court.  Michael Mansfield QC said “As I write one fifth of Pakistan, already blighted by earthquakes, is covered with flood waters threatening the health and safety of over six million people. Without conscientious and principled protest which focuses on the undoubted factors which contribute to this decimation of the environment, the urgency of the problem will not be addressed. I trust these entirely legitimate and selfless objectives will be reflected in the way the Climate 9 are judged by the court."

TOOLS & RESOURCES - 10:10 OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY CHECKLIST

The Green Occupational Therapy Network has published its own 10:10 Checklist and poster to help OT Departments cut carbon and improve care. It's not all about switching off and pedal power - actions cover equipment provision, exploring "mindfulness" in ADLs and "sustainabili-tea"!

http://greenerhealthcare.org/1010-ot-checklist

CARBON ADDICT SERIES - OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Occupational therapists can play a vital role in rehabilitation of a carbon addict, gently encouraging the use of fewer high-carbon products and more thought in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). The “executive-type” addict will often benefit from an accompanied visit to his or her own home.  The presence of the occupational therapist provides reassurance in the unfamiliar surroundings, and can assist in introductions to family members.  The addict should be encouraged to explore the garden and even the local streets.  If successful, a follow up “home placement” can be arranged.

http://www.carbonaddict.org/social-interventions-lifestyle

GOOD MONTH FOR ...

Holidays

BAD MONTH FOR ...

Pakistan

EVENTS

10:10 MONTHLY THEME - DRIVING

Read Tim's blog on how to reduce personal and organisational emissions from car travel. Click here

http://greenerhealthcare.org/blog/2010/09/1010-monthly-theme-september-d...