We are the UK Government’s independent adviser on sustainable development. Through advocacy, advice and
appraisal, we help put sustainable development at the heart of Government policy
Publications
Healthy Futures #3: Buildings and Sustainable Development
| Date: | 23/06/2005 |
|---|---|
| Classification: | Sustainable Communities, Health |
| Document type: | SDC Reports & Papers |
| Download: |  HF3-final.pdf - 175 KB |
| Summary: |  Now is the time for the NHS to design sustainable healthcare buildings that encourage patient recovery and a healthy population through promoting strong local economies, social cohesion and a healthy environment. Building sustainably provides healing environments and healthier workplaces that enhance public health. This helps reduce pressure on healthcare services, contributing to the long-term viability of the NHS. This publication is the third in a series that explores the NHS contribution to sustainable development. It looks at how and why the NHS should build and refurbish sustainably, highlighting some of the big issues, such as: promoting patient recovery and staff retention; accessibility by public transport, walking and cycling; adapting to change e.g. climate, new ways of working, new technology; engaging the local community in the planning process; providing community resources; using local labour and suppliers in construction and service delivery; using resources, such as energy and water, efficiently in its construction and throughout its lifetime; using environmentally sensitive building materials that are not harmful to health; and minimising waste by reusing and recycling building and other materials. |