‹ Go back
Coventry and Warwickshire Green Team Competition 2025
In October 2024, Coventry and Warwickshire commenced a Green Team Competition in partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare. The competition included 4 Trusts from Coventry and Warwickshire: South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, George Elliot Hospital and Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust.
The competition has brought anticipated annual savings to the Trust of £104,299 and 58,890 kgCO2e. This is the carbon footprint equivalent of driving over 173,517 miles in an average car (or 299 return trips between Coventry and Edinburgh).
Recognising the passion already present among staff for making meaningful change, the competition offered a structured programme of training and mentorship via CSH’s award-winning Sustainability in Quality Improvement (SusQI) framework. This helped teams to develop skills, apply tools, and confidently measure the environmental, financial and social impact of their work.
“It is great to see so many front-line services exploring new ways of working through a sustainable lens. Projects like the ones we’re going to hear about today are vital and will lead the way to delivering on our net zero promise.”
Laura Nelson, Chief Integration Officer at NHS Coventry & Warwickshire ICS
Project support and implementation
Through the Green Team Competition, eight teams from across the Coventry and Warwickshire ICS Trusts were selected to take part in the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare’s award-winning Sustainability in Quality Improvement (SusQI) programme, which transforms expert knowledge into action. Representing a diverse range of clinical areas and services, each team was paired with expert CSH mentors and supported to identify opportunities, implement change, and evaluate impact using the sustainable value equation, helping to embed sustainability into the heart of healthcare improvement.
Showcase and awards ceremony
At the Showcase and Awards Ceremony held on 13th March 2025, teams presented their findings to an audience from across the participating Trusts, ICS, and ICB, alongside a panel of expert judges including:
- Laura Nelson, Chief Integration Officer and Senior Responsible Officer for Sustainability, NHS Coventry & Warwickshire ICB
- Eddie Olla, Chief Digital and Information Officer, NHS Coventry & Warwickshire ICB
- Cath Richards, SusQI Programme Lead, Centre for Sustainable Healthcare
Projects showcased the potential for environmental savings, service improvement, and broader impacts on staff and patient wellbeing.
The impact
The Green Team Competition has delivered substantial and measurable benefits for the Trust. Across the participating projects, the initiative has generated anticipated annual savings of £104,299 and reduced carbon emissions by an estimated 58,890 kgCO2e. To put this into perspective, that’s equivalent to:
- Driving over 173,517 miles in an average petrol car
- Completing around 299 return trips between Coventry and Edinburgh
- The carbon absorbed by more than 2,356 mature trees in a year
Beyond the figures, the competition has sparked meaningful change across services, inspiring new ways of working that are not only greener, but more efficient and person-centred.
This impact represents an early step, demonstrating how small-scale, well-supported initiatives can grow to play a significant role in strengthening financial sustainability and advancing environmental objectives within healthcare.
Winners
Congratulations to the winning team, Maternity Services from George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust. The team undertook a thorough re-evaluation of their antenatal clinic booking process, streamlining appointments to reduce delays, improve patient experience, and optimise the use of staff time. Their changes supported HCA staff to take on expanded responsibilities and enabled midwives to focus more on clinical care, enhancing job satisfaction and overall team wellbeing.
The judging panel commended the team for their detailed service evaluation, effective application of Quality Improvement (QI) methodology, and thoughtful long-term planning to ensure the changes were embedded into the service workflow.
“Being part of the Green Team Competition has been a great experience that has enabled further knowledge regarding carbon footprinting and utilisation of sustainable resources, which has allowed collaborative working conditions on ways of improving practical solutions…”
Suganya Sukumaran, Lead Consultant of Obstetrics and
Abbie Le-Blancq, ANC and MAU Ward Manager
Highly Commended
Congratulations to the Highly Commended Critical Care Team, led by Dr Anthony Harding and Dr Kate Laver. The team used the familiar “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach to engage staff in three key changes. They reduced waste by streamlining Central Line Packs, explored PPE reuse (offering valuable learning despite implementation challenges), and introduced enteral bottle recycling, aligning practices with staff values.
The team was praised for showing how small, practical changes can deliver meaningful environmental, financial, and social benefits.
The Centre for Sustainable Healthcare would like to thank and congratulate all teams that took part in the competition. The competition’s outcomes serve as proof of the teams’ commitment and efforts to improve the sustainability of our healthcare systems.
Green Team Competition projects
Read the full Impact Report here or view the project summaries below.
1. Improving antenatal clinic services by focusing on a change in booking processes, Maternity Team
Team members: Abbie Le-Blancq, ANC & MAU ward manager; Emily Cornwall, Deputy Ops manager in maternity services; Suganya Sukumaran, Lead consultant of obstetrics; Natasha Stringer, Head of Midwifery
Setting / patient group: Antenatal clinic
Summary
The antenatal appointment system previously in place at the Trust required low-risk pregnant women to attend duplicate booking appointments, resulting in inefficiencies, increased waiting times, unnecessary travel, and added pressure on clinical and administrative resources. These repeated visits not only placed a financial strain on the service but also contributed to higher carbon emissions due to avoidable travel.
To address this, a multidisciplinary team redesigned the care pathway to eliminate the need for repeat booking appointments for low-risk women. As part of this new approach, Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) were trained to take blood samples, allowing midwives to focus on reviewing records and delivering targeted clinical care. Under the revised system, low-risk women now attend their scan, have blood samples taken by HCAs, and complete their appointment with a midwife for a streamlined review—improving flow, reducing delays, and enhancing the overall care experience.
Outcomes
The redesigned antenatal pathway has delivered clear benefits across multiple areas. Environmentally, it’s expected to reduce carbon emissions by around 4,061 kgCO₂e annually, mainly through less travel and fewer unnecessary tests, equivalent to over 12,000 miles driven in an average car.
Financially, the Trust anticipates savings of approximately £64,512 per year from reduced midwifery appointments, plus an additional £451 through more efficient use of consumables.
Clinically, the new approach has enhanced the timeliness of care, with no complaints reported and positive feedback from both staff and patients. Socially, it has reduced travel and waiting times for women while also supporting staff wellbeing by relieving workload pressures. Ongoing collaboration will be essential to maintain and build on these improvements.
2. Reduce, re-use, recycle in critical care, Critical Care Team
Team members: Dr Anthony Harding and Dr Kate Laver
Setting / patient group: Critical care
Summary
In critical care, three key issues were identified as contributing to unnecessary waste and inefficiency: overly stocked Central Line Packs, high consumption of single-use PPE, and the lack of recycling for nasogastric feed and supplement bottles. Together, these practices added to environmental impact, clinical inefficiencies, and financial strain.
To address this, the team streamlined Central Line Packs based on clinician feedback, removing unnecessary items to reduce waste and simplify procedures. A feasibility study was also carried out to explore the use of reusable gowns and aprons, though this project was not implemented due to cost barriers and the lack of on-site laundering. Meanwhile, a targeted recycling programme for enteral feed bottles was launched, with staff training, new bin placement, and a short-term trial used to assess effectiveness.
Outcomes
Streamlining Central Line Packs improved clinical safety by reducing cognitive load and ensuring key items were consistently included. Although the recycling initiative had no direct clinical effect, it was easily integrated into routine practice.
Environmentally, both interventions had clear benefits. The revised packs are expected to save 734.76 kgCO₂e annually, while the recycling of feed bottles, if implemented year-round, could cut emissions by 546.52 kgCO₂e.
Financial savings were also significant. Revised packs could save between £4,306 and £10,689 a year, and the recycling initiative could reduce disposal costs by £512 annually.
These changes also boosted staff morale, with 94% supporting the initiatives and many reporting increased motivation and alignment with sustainability goals.
3. Rationalisation of arteriovenous fistula surgical trays, Vascular Access and Transplant Team
Team members: Mr. John O’Callaghan, Vascular access and Transplant Consultant (Lead); Mr. Mohammed Aldaamsah, Vascular access and Transplant senior clinical Fellow (Lead); Catherine Ancheta, Clinical lead general, renal and vascular theatres; Mr. Farhan Ahmad, Vascular access and Transplant senior clinical Fellow; Mr. Muhammad Kama, Vascular access and Transplant senior clinical Fellow; Mr. Hamza Ahmad, Vascular access and Transplant junior clinical Fellow
Setting / patient group: Vascular surgery
Summary
Operating theatres are among the largest contributors to a hospital’s carbon footprint (up to 25%), with surgical kits often containing instruments that go unused but are still sterilised. For arteriovenous fistula (AVF) surgeries, the standard trays were found to include significantly more items than necessary. To address this, the team conducted an audit using tray tracking forms, identified low-use instruments, and engaged theatre staff and consultants to agree on a streamlined tray setup. The revised trays were then introduced for routine use, with backup trays available for complex cases.
Outcomes
Streamlining the AVF surgical trays has led to a projected reduction in carbon emissions from 456.48 kgCO₂e to 245.50 kgCO₂e, saving 210.98 kgCO₂e annually. This not only improves environmental performance but also contributes to better efficiency in theatres.
Clinically, the clearer tray layout is expected to enhance patient safety by reducing the risk of errors during instrument counting and preparation. Financially, the change has already resulted in annual savings of £1,348.96 due to fewer sterilisation cycles and reduced wear on instruments, with further long-term savings anticipated.
Staff reported that the simplified trays reduce setup time and ease workloads. A follow-up survey is planned to formally evaluate staff experience after continued use.
4. Improving ventilation & laminar flow efficiency in theatres, Theatres Team
Team members: Rebecca Davoile, Clinical Lead Theatres
Setting / patient group: Theatres
Summary
Operating theatres are among the most energy-intensive areas in hospitals, consuming up to six times more energy than general wards, largely due to ventilation and laminar flow systems that often remain on outside of operating hours. In support of the NHS’s net-zero goal, this project aimed to reduce unnecessary energy use by automatically switching off theatre ventilation overnight in elective and emergency theatres, with an override option for out-of-hours procedures.
Despite this intention, several challenges emerged. Some theatres had broken or inaccessible override buttons, and the lack of integration between conventional and laminar flow systems meant a full shutdown wasn’t immediately possible without significant technical upgrades. These limitations prompted a successful funding bid through the NHS Energy Efficiency Fund and Salix grants, with upgrades scheduled for March/April 2025.
Outcomes
While clinical outcomes were not a primary focus, the project ensured that patient safety remained uncompromised, with input from Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) teams and the ventilation safety group.
Environmentally and financially, the initiative has strong potential. Annual energy use from theatre ventilation stood at 342,988.80 kWh, contributing 94,397.38 kgCO₂e. Once upgrades are complete and full shutdown is implemented, annual savings are projected at £28,113 and 45,513 kgCO₂e, a substantial step toward greener hospital operations.
Socially, the initiative received support from 60% of surveyed staff, with concerns around patient safety addressed through engagement and education. As awareness grows, further staff buy-in is expected, reinforcing a culture of sustainability within clinical settings.
5. Reducing milk and teabag waste on tea rounds, Domestic Services Team
Team members: Anneka Moore, Housekeeper and Samantha Jones, Domestic Assistant
Setting / patient group: Inpatient wards
Summary
Food and drink provision in hospitals carries both environmental and financial impacts. At George Eliot Hospital, staff identified waste associated with individually prepared cups of tea and milk left out at hydration stations. On two wards, Alexandra and Felix, housekeepers, cleaners, and hostess staff led a project to reduce this waste by switching from individual teabags to shared teapots and by managing milk more efficiently.
On Alexandra, where milk was left unrefrigerated, wastage was high, while Felix, with access to a fridge, saw far less waste. By preparing tea in teapots (using 8–12 teabags per pot) and introducing small, lidded jugs for milk, the team aimed to cut down on single-use items and excess milk being thrown away.
Outcomes
The environmental benefits were notable. Weekly teabag use dropped from 440 to between 220 and 300 per ward, resulting in an annual carbon saving of 252.72–396.24 kgCO₂e, equivalent to driving up to 1,166 miles in an average car. Milk waste on Alexandra was reduced dramatically, from 48 pints to just 4.44 pints per week, cutting emissions by 2,552.16 kgCO₂e annually, or the equivalent of 7,520 miles driven.
Financially, reduced teabag use saves between £131.04 and £205.92 per year, while the milk-saving intervention offers a projected annual saving of £797.70. There’s potential for greater impact if adopted across all 16 wards, including weekends and evenings.
Socially, the changes were well received. Patients preferred tea served from a teapot, and hostesses found the new process more enjoyable. Clinically, drink availability remained unaffected, with tea rounds continuing alongside on-demand access, ensuring there was no increased risk of dehydration or negative patient outcomes.
6. Inhaler technique in the community for COPD patients, COPD Respiratory Team
Team members: Lisa Taylor, COPD clinical nurse specialist and Jo Stewart, Project Manager, Strategy and Planning
Setting / patient group: Patients with COPD diagnosis
Summary
Inhalers, particularly metered dose inhalers (MDIs), account for a significant share of the NHS’s carbon footprint, around 3%, with MDIs being the largest contributor. At George Eliot Hospital, MDIs made up 95% of prescribed inhalers, despite dry powder inhalers (DPIs) offering a far lower environmental impact. While DPI use is gradually increasing, it still falls short of the NHS’s 30% target.
This project aimed to promote sustainable inhaler prescribing by encouraging the shift from MDIs to DPIs and improving inhaler technique among COPD patients. By engaging GP practices, specifically Dordon Health Centre and Spring Hill Medical Centre, the team provided targeted training to clinical staff on greener prescribing options, proper technique, and national guidelines. Resources such as QR code-linked videos and follow-up sessions with respiratory nurses supported ongoing learning and patient education.
Outcomes
The training sessions boosted staff confidence, particularly at Spring Hill Medical Centre, where clinicians reported an improved ability to assess inhaler use and suitability. However, limited time and staffing were noted as barriers to full implementation.
Across both practices, there was a clear commitment to improving patient education and addressing resistance to changing inhaler types. At George Eliot Hospital, patients trained by the COPD team felt better equipped to manage their condition, though awareness of the environmental benefits remained low.
COPD patients attending pulmonary rehab also benefitted from enhanced guidance, applying it to their daily care. Feedback from wider community events, including Primary Care Network meetings and local forums, showed strong interest in further education and practical training tools, such as dummy inhalers.
Overall, the project increased clinical awareness of the environmental impact of inhalers and strengthened confidence in delivering more sustainable, patient-centred respiratory care within the community.
7. Reducing energy, water and electricity usage in a new dermatology site, Dermatology Team
Team members: Rebecca Grant, Clinical Education Fellow; Lauren Taylor, Clinical Education Fellow,; Abigail Cooke, Dermatology Fellow; Simon Tso, Consultant Dermatologist
Setting / patient group: Warwick Dermatology Centre
Summary
Following the relocation of the dermatology department to a standalone site 20 minutes from the main hospital, the team saw an opportunity to reduce its environmental footprint and assess the impact of the new setting on patients and staff. The move enabled targeted efforts to monitor and cut electricity, gas, and water use while also exploring the potential wellbeing benefits of increased access to green space.
The intervention included a staff education campaign promoting energy and water-saving habits, a survey to evaluate the psychological and behavioural impact of the new environment, and an audit of melanoma treatment pathways to ensure alignment with lower-carbon clinical guidelines.
Outcomes
The initiative led to a one-month carbon saving of 382.4 kgCO₂e, mostly from a one-third reduction in electricity use. Despite a slight increase in gas consumption, the projected annual saving is 4,588.7 kgCO₂e, equivalent to driving 13,520 miles. Financially, this translates to a net annual saving of £4,822.22, based on monthly reductions in electricity and water costs.
Staff felt proud of the environmental impact and were motivated to continue these behaviours. Many reported improved wellbeing at the new site, with nearly two-thirds regularly using nearby green space. Patients also preferred the location, mainly due to easier parking and a more relaxed environment.
An audit of melanoma care confirmed all patients were already on the appropriate lower-carbon treatment pathway, with no further changes needed.
8. Inhaler Use & Recycling in Coventry Community, Paediatric Respiratory Physiotherapy Team
Team members: Annika Shepherd, CWPT Advanced Respiratory Physiotherapist and Lisa Wong, Physiotherapists CWPT – Clinical Specialist – Respiratory
Setting / patient group: paediatrics / patients requiring inhalers
Summary
Inhalers contribute around 3% of the NHS’s carbon footprint, with pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) posing the greatest impact due to their HFA gas and plastic components. Within the local paediatric caseload, 25% of children and young people use high-carbon pMDIs, often multiple devices, paired with limited knowledge on correct use and disposal.
While switching to dry powder inhalers (DPIs) or prescribing alternatives like leukotriene receptor antagonists is outlined in the NHS Net Zero plan, these approaches are more difficult to implement in younger populations. This project explored alternative strategies, focusing on inhaler recycling and user education.
A survey was conducted to assess understanding of inhaler disposal and identifying when inhalers are empty. The team also worked with local pharmacies to determine recycling options across the area.
Outcomes
Survey results showed that 75% of respondents believed they could tell when an inhaler was empty based on shaking, sound, weight, or taste—methods that are unreliable and suggest a need for better education around correct usage and monitoring.
Engagement with pharmacies revealed that while most accept inhalers, few could confirm if they are recycled, with many likely incinerated. Council guidance varied, and patients often dispose of inhalers in household bins due to a lack of clear information on recycling options.
These findings highlight the importance of improved education and clearer, more consistent guidance to support both appropriate inhaler use and environmentally responsible disposal.
