Patients can be exposed to unsafe levels of harmful plasticisers, particularly vulnerable patients such as newborns and children, who are exposed during critical periods of development. HCWH Europe is hosting a webinar on 15 May to explore these issues from a scientific evidence perspective, with a focus on PVC medical devices. Speakers will highlight the risks of using PVC medical devices and discuss the importance of phasing out PVC to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals throughout the entire PVC lifecycle.

Andreea Zotinca, our Circular Healthcare Project Officer, visited Southmead Hospital, one of the healthcare facilities that form the North Bristol NHS Trust – a member of the Global Green & Healthy Hospitals (GGHH) network. She witnessed the inspiring work to reduce the hospital's environmental impact and learned about some of its challenges.

Portugal has developed a national decarbonisation plan for its healthcare sector, putting them on a path towards net zero emissions by 2050. Working closely with HCWH Europe and Arup via Operation Zero, Portugal’s Central Administration of the Health System has calculated its carbon footprint and developed a concrete plan towards zero emissions.

Healthcare professionals have untapped potential in advocating the appropriate use of antibiotics in animal agriculture - which can have a significant impact on public health. Learn more in our new video series and communications toolkit.

As trusted members of our society, health professionals can raise awareness about the risks associated with overuse of antibiotics in animal agriculture, and promote the adoption of best practices for animal welfare and antibiotic stewardship. By doing so, healthcare professionals can help to protect public health and preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.