|
SUSTAINABILITY |
|
|
Bottom Line |
Protecting resources from one generation to the next |
|
Significance |
There are many different definitions of “sustainability”. Some definitions focus particularly on the environmental meaning of the term where it can be used as a synonym for greening. However, most people who use the term “sustainability” see it as much more than something to do with the carbon footprint of the health service but also with issues relating to equity and social justice. The term “sustainability” is often used in a much broader context in healthcare to mean whether or not a service is living within its means or not. Building a new block for elective surgery when it is clear that the amount of elective surgery is not going to increase would be an example of an unsustainable service. The term sustainability has many meanings. In recent years it has come to a meaning related to the environment but sustainability can be applied in a much broader way. It is for example unsustainable to run a health service that relies on the recruitment of staff from impoverished countries; it is also unethical. Linked to sustainability is the concept of stewardship - a term increasingly used in public services. In stewardship the person responsible for resources has to aim to leave a service in better condition than they found it and not simply deplete the resources for short-term gain as stewardship ensures sustainable use of resources. |
|
Examples of how the term is used; Extract from the Better Value Healthcare 21st Century Glossary |
“One of the most abused words in the English language in recent years, without a doubt, has been “sustainable.” Like “solution” – a vaporous buzzword ubiquitous in corporate slogans – it signifies both anything and nothing.” Source: Owen D. (2009) Green Metropolis: why living smaller, living closer, and driving less are the keys to sustainability. Penguin Group, (p.38). “Sustainable development means Protecting resources from one generation to the next.” Source: Middleton, J. (2008) Medicine, Conflict and Survival. Sandwell Health’s Other Economic Summits SHOES. Vol. 24, Supplement 1, April-June 2008. (p.S63). “In this guide, we define sustainable development as the integration of environmental, social, political and economic considerations and impacts within decision-making. It also includes notions of social justice and equity. Plans and decisions should meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” (this was the definition first fully articulated in 1987 by Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland, who chaired the World Commission on Environment and Development. Source: Griffths, J., Stewart, L. (2008) Sustaining a healthy future: taking action on climate change. The Faculty of Public Health, (p.11). Sustainable consumption and production means:• Consuming fewer material goods;• Using locally-produced goods and services to
reduce their carbon emissions from their transportation – this will also
contribute to the economic sustainability of local communities.
|
