The work of pharmacists to make medicines use and the whole NHS more environmentally sustainable was highlighted at the Welsh Senedd this week.
At a session co-hosted with the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, politicians were told of how pharmacists’ expert skills are proving crucial in reducing the NHS’ carbon emissions – around 25% of which result from medicines use.
Joining RPS staff at the event were three RPS expert members who have been trailblazers for climate action within the profession:
- Yasmina Hamdaoui, Pre-Operative Assessment Pharmacist at Betsi Cadwaladr UHB & co-founder of Ysbyty Gwynedd Green Group.
- Andy Evans, Owner of JDS Evans Pharmacy in Newport, the first Net Zero pharmacy in Wales.
- Minna Eii, NHS England’s Chief Sustainability Officer's Clinical Fellow & Lead Author of upcoming RPS Greener Pharmacy Guides.
They were joined by RPS Wales Director Elen Jones. Commenting on the event, Elen said:
“It was great to get so many productive conversations with the politicians to highlight the great work pharmacists are already doing in the sustainability field and to explain what further steps are required to reduce the negative environmental and ecological impact of medicines.
“We were also delighted to be able to give a platform to Yasmina, Andy and Minna to highlight the fantastic work they’ve undertaken in recent years. Their passion and expertise really shone through and brought our key points to life for the politicians. A huge thank you to you three – diolch yn fawr!”
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