Transforming healthcare: the role of nurse research in supporting the NHS Net Zero Agenda

Abstract

The rising impacts of climate change, such as increased health inequalities and increase in climate-sensitive diseases, pose significant challenges to the NHS. Community nurses and nurse researchers are pivotal in driving solutions to meet the NHS Net Zero targets, while maintaining high-quality patient care. The nursing workforce represents a significant portion of healthcare professionals globally and is uniquely positioned to influence climate-sensitive care delivery and reduce carbon emissions. This article explores the role of nurse research in advancing sustainability within healthcare, focusing on strategies for embedding sustainability into clinical practice and nursing curricula.

Keywords: Net Zero targets; carbon emissions; climate changes; clinical practice; sustainability.