Green and Sustainability

Poor air quality is the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK. As part of our green agenda we are raising awareness about air pollution for the health of our patients. Air pollution kills approximately 7 million people prematurely worldwide, and up to 36,000 people prematurely in the UK.ely to its effects.

The Clean Air Hub

The Clean Air Hub website has collected everything you need to know about air pollution in one place. It includes an air pollution forecast that can help you make decisions about areas you may wish to avoid on high-pollution days.
Particulate matter has a major impact on our lung health. This includes asbestos, cigarette smoke, and dust, among other things. For more information on air pollution and particular diseases, see Asbestos.com; the linked air quality information website is for the USA only. For worldwide and local information on air quality (updated in real-time) Click here. For information on stopping smoking please see Breathe Islington
There are many ways that you can personally support reductions in air pollution and improve your health by reducing car use and choosing to walk, cycle, and scoot if you are able.

Current Pollution Status

Elevated pollution levels surrounding Clerkenwell Medical Practice are attributed to Pine Street and the substantial traffic flow in Islington. You can check the air quality outside your home address using this Link.
For any inquiries or discussions about concerns related to the air pollution and its impact on your health, kindly schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians.

What are we doing to be more sustainable?

Embedding environmental sustainability into our organisation

Energy efficiency

Responsible food and drink sourcing

Waste reduction and recycling increase

Reducing our use of paper

Remote Consultations

Reducing prescribing

Implementing the NUS/RCGP Green Impact Toolkit

At Clerkenwell Medical Practice, our focus is on providing high-quality care and ensuring you have the right prescriptions for your health. However, the NHS faces a significant annual loss of £300 million due to medication waste, and 50% of people do not take their prescribed medication as directed. If you have questions about your medication or unnecessary prescriptions, please contact the practice or schedule a medication review with our pharmacy technician for personalized assistance. Your well-being is our priority.

Go Green order Online!

Variable repeat medications

Inhalers and environmental; considerations

Polypharmacy (taking lots of medications)

Medication waste

Over the counter medications

Sustainable Practices

Join Us in Going Green!

At Clerkenwell Medical Practice, we’re committed to sustainability, and we want you to join us on this journey. Here are some practical and mostly health-related changes you can make to help the environment and save money. If you have additional ideas or thoughts on how we can enhance our sustainability efforts, we’d love to hear from you.

Sustainable Transport

  • Walk or cycle to your appointments whenever possible—our practice offers convenient cycle racks.
  • Opt for public transport to reach us or other destinations. Check the TFL website for the best routes.
  • Consider using trains instead of driving for longer distances and aim to reduce air travel.

Paperless Approach

  • Download the NHS App to can help reduce the need for paper-based processes, such as physical appointment letters, prescriptions, and medical records. This contributes to saving trees and reduces the environmental impact of paper production.
  • Stay informed with health education messages on our patient information screens, reducing the need for paper leaflets.
  • Explore our website for a wealth of information on registration, online appointments, clinics, and services. We regularly update a dedicated section with all things new at Barnsbury.
  • Embrace online forms instead of paper-based ones. They’re easy to use, and our Patient Services team can assist if needed.

Medication Management

  • We’re actively reducing polypharmacy and overprescribing, promoting discussions with patients to ensure the best outcomes.
  • Explore alternative ways to manage your condition, such as through diet, exercise, and support groups, which can reduce the need for excessive medication.

Support for Health and Wellbeing

  • Join us as a Parkrun Practice and participate in the local Parkrun every Saturday at 9 am in Finsbury Park. It’s an opportunity to stay fit, enjoy the outdoors, and volunteer if running isn’t your preference.

Healthy Diet & Plant-Based Living

  • Consider adopting a predominantly wholefood plant-based diet for improved health and reduced environmental impact. Visit British Dietician’s Association and Plant-Based Health Professionals for more information.
  • If you’re contemplating major dietary changes, ensure proper supplementation of vitamin D and B12 and seek advice from healthcare professionals if needed.

Food Surplus Collection

  • Combat food waste and support those in need by checking out FareShare, a charity collecting surplus food from supermarkets.

Seek Professional Guidance

Let’s work together towards a healthier and more sustainable future at Barnsbury Medical Practice!

36,000 people succumb prematurely to its effects.